There are five main Disney Lion King feature films that have been released or are scheduled for release. These films form the core cinematic universe of the beloved franchise, originating from the classic animated film.
The Core Lion King Film Series
The "Lion King" franchise includes a series of theatrical and direct-to-video films that expand upon the adventures of Simba, his family, and the inhabitants of the Pride Lands. From the iconic 1994 original to upcoming prequels, these films have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Here is a breakdown of the main films in the Disney "Lion King" series:
| Film Title | Release Year | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Lion King | 1994 | Original Animated Classic |
| The Lion King II: Simba's Pride | 1998 | Direct-to-Video Sequel |
| The Lion King 1½ | 2004 | Direct-to-Video Prequel/Parallel |
| The Lion King | 2019 | Photorealistic Animated Remake |
| Mufasa: The Lion King | 2024 | Prequel to the 2019 film (upcoming) |
The Lion King (1994)
The animated masterpiece that started it all, The Lion King (1994) tells the coming-of-age story of Simba, a young lion cub destined to rule the Pride Lands, and his journey to reclaim his rightful place after tragedy strikes.
The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998)
A direct-to-video sequel, The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998) continues the saga by focusing on Simba's daughter, Kiara, and her forbidden romance with Kovu, a member of the exiled Outsider pride.
The Lion King 1½ (2004)
Also a direct-to-video release, The Lion King 1½ (2004) offers a humorous and alternative perspective on the original film's events, primarily through the eyes of the iconic duo, Timon and Pumbaa, revealing their backstory and how they met.
The Lion King (2019)
A photorealistic animated remake, The Lion King (2019) reimagines the 1994 classic with groundbreaking CGI technology, bringing the characters and landscapes to life with stunning realism while largely following the original storyline.
Mufasa: The Lion King (2024)
An upcoming prequel to the 2019 film, Mufasa: The Lion King (2024) is set to explore the origin story of Simba's father, Mufasa, delving into his youth and rise to kingship.
Beyond the Main Films
While the question specifically pertains to the "Lion King" films, the franchise also extends to several short films, further enriching the universe:
- Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable (1995)
- Wild About Safety (2008–2013)
- It's UnBungalievable (2016)
These short films offer additional narratives and educational content, expanding the beloved world of The Lion King beyond its primary feature film releases.
