The Lion King1994The Lion King
1994
Simba, a lion cub, is born to be king after his father, Mufasa. When his jealous uncle Scar engineers a tragedy and convinces Simba it was his fault, the young lion runs away to a carefree life, until the past comes looking for him.
The default: films the whole family can watch together; any scary or intense moments for the littlest viewers are flagged in the Context Notes.
Why it’s here
A son who ran from guilt must remember who he is and take up his father's charge. Mufasa is a noble, protective father, and Scar a vivid picture of envy.
Context notes
For parents, before you press play.
Mufasa's death in the stampede and Simba finding his body are upsetting, the hyenas are menacing, and Scar falls to his death. Simba disobeys his father and later runs from his responsibility before returning, so it's a natural talk about duty.
The Lion King (1994)
Discussion questions
When the credits end, go around the room. Each person gives the film a score out of ten and says why.
- What did Mufasa mean when he told Simba to "remember who you are"?
- Was "Hakuna Matata" good advice? Always?
- Why did Scar want to be king?
- Which moment stuck with you most?
Content advisory
Common Sense Media 6+: Mufasa's death, sharp-toothed hyenas, and fights with claw marks, no blood; mild insults.
Trailer
Best edition
The disc comes first.
The Lion King 4K Blu-ray (The Signature Collection)
4K · December 4, 2018
Coming later
Where to stream
Streaming services are not listed yet. When they are, this note stays secondary to the disc.