Looking for a mom's review of the Lion King? I'm telling you everything you need to know before bringing your kids!

We are HUGE Lion King fans in our household (this is us seeing the Tale of the Lion King show at Disneyland the first day it was performed).  We watch the animated film at least once a week, and the soundtrack is on regular rotation in my car.  So I'm not going to lie……I was WORRIED about this live action version.  Would it be as amazing as the original? They have a lot to live up to!

Tuesday night, I had the honor of attending the Lion King Premiere…….and I have a LOT to say.  You guys also had a lot of questions.  So I'm sharing everything you need to know before taking your kids to see The Lion King.

The Lion King: A Mom's Review

Overall, I loved it.  If you're looking for an alternate story….you won't get it here.  This is definitely a true to the original remake (with one new song and a lot of new funny jokes from Pumbaa and Timon).  As a fan of the original, I loved seeing the same story with amazing visuals.  The CGI and animation effects are AMAZING, it was almost impossible to believe that these weren't real animals……and the shots of the Pride Lands? Absolutely took my breath away.  If you haven't seen the original in awhile, I'd highly suggest watching it before you see the new version.  I thought it was really fun to compare the two.

My Favorite Parts:

The music was absolutely, hands down my favorite part of the film.  I was humming along and had to stop myself from dancing my way out of my seat (and trust me, I wasn't the only one).  I can't wait to download the soundtrack.

Character wise……..Seth Rogan and Billy Eichner absolutely stole the show as Pumbaa and Timon.  They're a riot.  Perfect casting.  I also loved Donald Glover as Simba, and of course…..Beyonce was magical as Nala.

Was It Scary?

That was your biggest question.  Simply put, yes there are scary parts.  I brought a girlfriend to see the movie with me who also has a young child (her daughter just turned six).  We both agreed that we would take the girls, but knew there were some scary parts to expect with them.  Since this is CGI, it looks a lot more realistic than the animated version.  So the Mufasa death scene? Is a lot more intense.  So are the hyenas.  I think if your child scares easily, I'd suggest watching the animated version with them FIRST, so they (and you can be prepared for those parts in this version).  I know that Lydia will love it, just want her to remember that those parts of coming.

Should you see it? ABSOLUTELY.  The Lion King is stunning, and will have you feeling just the right amount of nostalgia.

THE LION KING arrives in theatres everywhere on July 19th! 

disney movies