The Circle of Life (Disney's The Lion King 1994)

A young lion Prince is cast out of his pride by his cruel uncle, who claims he killed his father. While the uncle rules with an iron fist, the prince grows up beyond the savannah, living by a philosophy: No worries for the rest of your days. But when his past comes to haunt him, the young Prince must decide his fate: will he remain an outcast, or face his demons and become what he needs to be?   ~IMDB

 Story

Really, the story wasn't that creative.   It was Shakespeare's Hamlet with lions.   However, it was a fun and entertaining take of the classic play.   The characters weren't the same as the play's, in personalities and looks (obviously).    I'm also sure that the great playwright didn't have quite as many jokes in his version.   ☺

Visuals

This film is full of really fantastic animation.   The movie was the height of the Disney Renaissance, partly for its stunning views of the African wilderness.   From sunrises to starry nights, Disney portrayed the true beauty of Africa in every frame.   Also, "I Just Can't Wait to be King" is the most underrated animated sequence ever.   Just saying.

Music

Elton John is very proud of (and obsessed with) this movie.   Every time I turn on Pandora, I get at least ten versions of him singing "Can You Feel The Love Tonight."   I'm pretty sure if he could go back, he'd insist that the film be like Tarzan in that none of the characters actually sing and it's just him singing while characters do things noiselessly.   I mean, can you blame him?   It's not every day you win an Oscar for music from an animated movie.

Final Rating

This movie is awesome.   I almost feel like saying "if you haven't seen this movie, you're not a true Disney fan."   (I won't be that mean.)   However, in the rare event that you haven't watched it, do so now, so I can't say anything to you.   Also, buy a Simba stuffed animal to watch it with.   And the soundtrack so you can sing to all the songs later.

Bonus Gif: