Blu-ray Review: ‘The Lion King 1 1/2,’ ‘The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride’

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CHICAGO – Disney’s “The Lion King” is one of the most beloved properties in the history of the influential movie studio. It was such a phenomenon that it spawned a number of spin-offs, including a Broadway show and two straight-to-video sequels, “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” (1998) and “The Lion King 1 1/2” (2004). The two mediocre sequels were available in a “Lion King” Blu-ray box set but have just been made available solo for the first time. Both are just OK, good for the little ones who have seen the original movie 100 times but otherwise for hardcore Disney collectors only.

Blu-ray Rating: 3.0/5.0

“The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride”

Synopsis:
The king of animated films reigns in this final chapter of The Lion King trilogy, now breathtakingly beautiful for the first time in a 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack! Experience the power of “Upendi” - which means “love” - as Kiara, Simba’s strong-willed daughter, seeks adventure away from her father’s watchful gaze. Timon and Pumbaa can do only so much to protect her, especially when she encounters an intriguing rival, Kovu, a cub who is being groomed to lead Scar’s pride. As Kiara and Kovu search for their proper places in the great “Circle Of Life,” they discover that it may be their destiny to reunite their prides and bring peace to the Pride Lands.

Featuring the original all-star voice cast, breathtaking animation and enchanting songs, Kiara and Kovu’s adventure thrills audiences of all ages as the glorious “Circle Of Life” continues for a new generation.

Special Features:
o Timon & Pumba’s Insectapedia
o Timon & Pumbaa: Find Out Why
o One By One Animated Short
o “Love Will Find A Way” Music Video
o Proud of Simba’s Pride Featurette

The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride
Photo credit: Disney

“The Lion King 1 1/2”

Synopsis:
Hilarity reigns in the motion picture comedy-adventure that takes you waaay back to the beginning before Simba’s tale began…now more fabulous than ever for the first time in a 2-disc Blu-ray Combo Pack!

From their uniquely hysterical perspective, Timon and his windy pal Pumbaa - the greatest unsung heroes of the savanna - reveal where they came from, how they helped Simba save the Serengeti and what really happened behind the scenes of The Lion King’s biggest events.

This essential chapter of The Lion King trilogy features your favorite characters voiced by the original cast (Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, Ernie Sabella plus Julie Kavner and Jerry Stiller) and music by Elton John and Tim Rice. You’ll feel the love for every outrageously funny moment.

Special Features:
o Timon & Pumbaa’s Vacation Safari
o Deleted Scenes
o Timon: Behind The Legend
o Before The Beginning: The Making Of The Lion King 1 1/2
o “Grazing In The Grass” Music Video

By BRIAN TALLERICO Content Director HollywoodChicago.com brian@hollywoodchicago.com