The Lion King (DVD, 2003, Platinum Edition; Features an All-New Song)

This great epic of kid-friendly animation was a huge hit when it first came out over a decade ago and again when it first hit the shelves on DVD. To anyone who enjoys animation and watches this film, it is easy to see why it has become such a success. The characters are very relatable to kids and adults alike, and the story is very epic and tackles some good moral issues, tracing the rise of Simba, the lion cub who is destined to be King.

I would give this film a 5/5, but I can't give it that for the simple reason that Disney obviously stole this whole story concept from an old Japanese manga comic book called Jungle Emperor Leo, which was later adapted into an animated Television adaptation shown in the U.S. first in 1965 under the name Kimba The White Lion. The worst part of the controversy though is that Disney has gotten away with it despite all the blatant similarities between the two movies. It's obvious that someone had to have been influenced by this, though Disney has stuck to their guns, claiming no knowledge of the old Japanese story. This shouldn't take away from the greatness of Disney's many films, including the Lion King though. It's just an unfortunate tarnish on their reputation, especially since they refuse to admit their fault.

So, my advice is enjoy this great movie the Lion King, and if you really love it, try to find a copy of of the source material, or check out the 1997 feature-length adaptation of the Japanese story, Jungle Emperor Leo, also available now on U.S. Region 1 DVD. The Lion King May Be Essentially A Remake, But It's A Remake Done Very Well And Adapted For U.S. Audiences.....unfortunately just without giving credit where it is due.

DVD Features:
Available Subtitles: English, French
Available Audio Tracks: English (Dolby Digital 5.1), English (Dolby Digital 5.1), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Disc 1: 2 Versions - Special Edition (featuring a new song) and original theatrical release both digitally restored and remastered
Deleted scenes
Audio commentaries
Sing along track
2 music videos including "Circle of Life" performed by the Disney Channel stars
Disc 2: Go beyond and explore the complete worldwide phenomenon in five areas: Animal Journey, Story Journey, Stage Journey, Film Journey, and Music Journey
Exciting games with all-new animation: Virtual Safari, Grab A Grub, Pesonality Profile & Sound Sensations
2 navigational platforms