Glimpsed in
the last scene of The Lion King, rightful king Simba
(Broderick) had a child of his own. In this sequel, we learn the
cub is a girl, named Kiara (Campbell). She is adventurous and runs
into a group of outsider lions, banished from the pride lands for
supporting Scar. In particular, she befriends Kovu (Marsden)
before their parents pull them apart. Kovu grows up being
instilled with hatred of Simba by his villainous mother, Zira
(Suzanne Pleshette), who plans for her son to follow in Scar’s paw
prints. The cubs come of age and meet as Kovu enters the pride
lands, secretly planning to kill Simba. He doesn’t, though, and he
and Kiara fall in love. Distrust and deception keep the sides at
odds until a final showdown.
CRITIQUE
Given the
success, artistically and financially, of The Lion King, the
straight-to-video team had a task on their hands. Though strictly for
the kids, The Lion King 2 is close to the quality of its
predecessor in many ways and makes enjoyable viewing.
I happen to
think that one of the reasons The Lion King was so successful
was the clear influence of Shakespeare’s Hamlet on the plot and
themes of the story. Of course, the outstanding animation was a
highlight was well. One thing the creators of this follow-up have done
well is taken their cues from the original. The story here has another
Shakespearean tale at it’s source: Romeo and Juliet. While it
doesn’t follow that tragedy in plot completely, this film’s reference
to it is a good way to anchor the story.
The combination
of comedy and dramatic moments used in all Disney films still works
here and the film is just as briefly scary at moments, though less
frequently, as The Lion King. The laughs of this film
definitely benefit from the presence of the immortal team of Timon
(Nathan Lane) and Pumbaa (Ernie Sabella). Viewers will love seeing
them all through the film, not just coming in later as they did in
The Lion King.The song of the villain in this sequel, “My
Lullaby,” is more foreboding than Scar’s “Be Prepared.”
Other songs
follow the same types seen the original. The African-influenced “He
Lives in You” begins the film, there’s “Upendi” (meaning “love”) in
place of “Hakuna Matata,” and the love song is “Love Will Find A Way.”
These are on the whole worthy successors to the earlier songs. Robert
Guilliame’s Rafiki sings “Upendi” which is nice, and they all fit the
story. The animation, though on a smaller scale is more than adequate.
The voice work here is an integral and successful element. Pleshette
in particular has a voice that is her character.
Kids will
probably be just as enchanted with The Lion King 2 as with the
original and adults will find it an entertaining diversion for 81
minutes. Laughter, love and tolerance in the story are things we can
all appreciate.
THE VIDEO
The video
presentation of this film is preserved in the usual 16 by 9 widescreen
format here. There was no theatrical widescreen presentation and it is
evident, though.
THE AUDIO
The songs come
through loud and clear in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound here. Also
offered are French and Spanish language tracks.
THE EXTRAS
Song Selection—This
is a feature that allows viewers to see the musical numbers in the
film with accompanying lyrics. Lots of people mught find it fun to
sing along.
“Lion King’s
Matter of Facts”—This
is a feature that, when turned on, allows the viewer to see facts
about the film pop up on screen while it plays. Usually interesting
and funny.
Music Video:
“Love Will Find A Way” recorded by Heather Headly and Kenny Lattimore
is the video and it’s worth a look.
Timon and
Pumbaa’s Virtual Safari 2.0--
A short and cute CG video with the camera operating from Timon and
Pumbaa’s point of view. For the kids.
Pride Land Games—A
game where players rustle up some grub for Timon and Pumbaa. Voice
over from the actors is nice here and is also on the above feature and
“Lots About Lions.” Again, for the kids.
Rafiki’s
Challenge—Another
game for the young ones, a variation on the classic shell game.
“Find Out Why”—A
series of 5 adorable animated shorts featuring Timon and Pumbaa. Each
discusses a different natural phenomenon, like lightning.
“Lots About
Lions”—A
very brief feature with Timon and Pumbaa narrating live action footage
telling all about lions. Informative for the kids.
“Proud of
Simba’s Pride”—This
is a studio behind-the-scenes featurette about 7 minutes long with
interviews, clips, and on set footage. This will be the most
interesting feature for the adults, as the actors talk about their
characters and viewers learn about the process of creating the film.
“One by One”—From
the team of The Lion King comes this 5 minute animated short
set to African music with a chant. This is worth watching.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The sequel
The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride is fine viewing, especially as a
follow-up to a standout animated film. Benefiting from the original
voice talent and the addition of new actors who are well cast. Even
the adults in the house won’t feel like the 81 minutes of this film is
a waste.
