With tickets now on sale for those who wish to go and see the live-action The Lion King as soon as it hits the big screen, we've decided to take a look back at the Disney classic, and pick out some of our favourite and most profound moments that we really hope make it into the upcoming remake. Whether good or bad, these scenes left a lasting impression that it will be hard to emulate, but we're sure that Disney and their almost-all-new cast will be up to the job...
7. Simba and Nala's play fighting
Foreshadowing is a common technique used in Disney films, and the early seeds thrown out in regards to Simba and Nala's future relationship are no different. Their tumbling around as they attempt to get the better of one another is one of the simpler, sweetest moments of the film. You quickly come to realise that they are just kids, and that the challenges that lie ahead for them would be difficult for anybody of their age.
6. A colourful performance of I Just Can't Wait To Be King
Psychedelic and enchanting, Simba's performance of I Just Can't Wait To Be King, with little interjections from Zazu, is one of the most beloved moments from the entire movie. It's funny and easily picked up, meaning that once you've heard it a couple of times, you'll find yourself singing along and laughing as Simba causes chaos for the animals of the Pride Lands.d
5. Mufasa and Simba's bonding session
Though their time together is cut short, there's one prominent moment in The Lion King where father-son duo Mufasa and Simba sit upon the cliffs, discussing exactly what Simba will be responsible for when the day comes he has to take over as King of the Pride Lands. Mufasa is trying to push Simba to be more mature so that when he does become leader, he's got a strong head on his shoulders. As we see throughout the first moments of the movie, he has a lot of learning to do, but is forced to grow up fast...
4. Simba's emotions overflowing following Mufasa's murder
In one of the most heartbreaking cinematic moments of all time, Simba pleads with his murdered father Mufasa to "wake up!" It brings tears to our eyes every time we watch it, and we imagine it's only going to get harder to watch when the scene is brought to life in live-action. Despite the emotional trauma, it's absolutely essential in pushing the story along; let's hope Disney don't mess it up!
3. An updated but faithful performance from Scar of Be Prepared
With the confirmation that all of the original tracks (plus some new ones) will be making their return in The Lion King, came the rumours that Be Prepared will be very different to the song we heard in the 1994 release. That's entirely necessary because of the song and sequence's first outing being based on a Nazi film, but we do hope that it remains faithful in some places.
2. Mufasa's voice echoing from the clouds
Simba, pent up with rage following his time in the jungles, screams at the sky to the spirit of his father. When Mufasa does appear, he reminds his son of his rightful position as the ruler of the Pride Lands, giving Simba the encouragement he needs (along with a little help from Nala) to return to his home, and bring Scar's reign of terror to an end.
1. Bringing in a new era
When all is said and done, and Simba rules up on Pride Rock with faithful partner Nala, audiences got a glimpse at the family's future in the classic film's closing moments. We see a new lion cub born, which paved the way for a (hugely underrated) sequel. Whilst we probably won't be getting a live-action Lion King follow-up, it would still be nice to see this little nod to what's to come.
The Lion King comes to cinemas across the UK on July 19, 2019.
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