Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when Disney's "The Lion King" comes roaring into theaters and homes in 3D. The special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, showcasing the Oscar and Golden Globe winning film in a newer and bigger way.
Nearly a decade since "The Lion King" last appeared on the big screen, the upcoming theatrical release invites new generations into the "Circle of Life." The presentation is a planned wide domestic release-the biggest since the film's 1994 debut and the film's first ever 3D release.
"‘The Lion King' is the best-selling home entertainment release of all time—and this is ‘The Lion King' like never before," Bob Chapek, president of distribution for Walt Disney Studios, said in a press release. "The all-new 3D format immerses viewers in the epic settings and puts them face-to-face with these beloved characters."
Celebrating the Diamond Edition release, "The Lion King" will be available of the epic movie in high-definition Blu-ray andBlu-ray 3D on Oct. 4.
The Blu-ray debut marks the first time "The Lion King" has been available in any form since 2004. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of picture and sound enhancements, interactive features and bonus content, including a new set of hilarious animated bloopers. "
The re-release of the film also gives those who watched the film as children the opportunity to re-experience the classic cartoon.
"I honestly want to see the movie again. I enjoyed it as a young kid. (3D will give it) a more realistic feel and scenes will be more dramatic," said Russell Bailey, sophomore.
Senior Ashley Ciardi agreed. "I am really excited," she said. "It was my favorite movie growing up. It is like a chance to relive some of my childhood."
The 3D theatrical release of the film will only last two weeks, ending in early October. Local showings include the Maplewood movie theatre and the AMC Loews in Mountainside.
Students voice their opinions on "The Lion King" in 3D:
"I don't want to see Mufasa being trampled in 3D. My inner child cannot handle it." - Katie Moore, senior
"I think it's going to be awesome; the characters will look like they're right in front of you. I can't wait to see it." - Jordan Alneida, sophomore
"I am very excited about the movie because when I was little, I used to watch it with my dad over and over again until our tape broke... I think it'll be sick." - Samantha Lazewski, junior
"I think that it is just a move to increase revenue. I was never a huge fan of 3D movies because I think it makes it more difficult to watch. But people will still go see it." - Jack Fondacaro, senior
"I won't see it. Why change what was already great?" - Natalie Schiferl, senior
Alyana Alfaro can be reached at alyana.alfaro@student.shu.edu.
Melissa Murray can be reached at melissa.murray@student.shu.edu.
