Is seeing Disney remakes in IMAX a passing craze?
The short answer is no.
The much anticipated 'live-action' remake of Disney's 1994 animated classic The Lion King sees The Jungle Book remake director Jon Favreau tackle a masterpiece.
The film focuses on the heir to the throne of the pride, Simba (Donald Glover), as he loses his beloved father Mufasa (James Earl Jones) due to the schemes of his evil uncle Scar (Chiwetel Ejiofor).
However, with help from childhood sweetheart Nala (Beyonce Knowles Carter) and new companions Timon (Billy Eichner) and Pumba (Seth Rogen), can Simba restore honour to his family?
Some will argue that this remake is completely unnecessary and so faithful to the original film that it verges on derivative, and they are not entirely wrong.
The same songs are back and are as catchy and rapturous as ever - the Circle of Life hasn't aged a day over that glorious opening.
The additional song of Spirit by Beyonce also fits seamlessly with the rest of the film, with her fierce vocals adding some needed fire to the middle of the adventure.
It is very similar, so similar that much of the film is almost shot-for-shot with the animated classic.
However, the wise casting choices - especially with scene-stealing Eichner and Rogen as Timon and Pumba - ensure that the film is laugh-out-loud funny at times.
The main draw for this adaptation, however, is the glorious imagery that the film has assembled.
The wide and lush landscapes of the Pridelands, the dark depths of the hyena lair, the rustling and vibrant jungle, it's all such a head-rush in how utterly realistic the settings are.
This is especially evident in the broad and an experience of IMAX 3D which brings the added depth to your lion outing.
The CGI used for the animals is equally stunning, while looking slightly facially immobile, the final product is also state-of-the-art in how lifelike they look.
The lack of mobility does slightly impair the booming vocals of James Earl Jones, however, but this really is a quibble considering the sheer ferocious beauty of the rest of the film.
Yes, it is mostly resting on being a gorgeous piece of filmmaking but it delivers grand spectacle enough so you are thoroughly satisfied.
The Lion King is available in IMAX 3D now.
Did you enjoy the new version of The Lion King? Let us know in the comments below.
