The Circle of Life Continues…
The Mouse House doesn’t know the meaning of “slow.” With original animations, long-anticipated sequels, live-action remakes and the continuing adventures of the Marvel Cinematic Universe all on the horizon, 2019 is going to be a busy year for Disney, especially when it comes to these five hyped titles!
5: “The Lion King†(2019)
Release Date: July 19, 2019
Of all the Disney animated classics that’ve been given the live-action treatment, many consider Jon Favreau’s “The Jungle Book†to be the best. Having proven himself, we “just can’t wait†to see Favreau’s adaptation of “The Lion King,†which brings the Pride Lands to life with photorealistic animation. While James Earl Jones will return to voice Mufasa, the cast is otherwise comprised of new players, including Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar. If you grew up in the ‘90s, chances are you saw “The Lion King†in the theaters multiple times twenty-five years ago. So, “be prepared†to rewatch this new one over and over again.
4: “Frozen 2†(2019)
Release Date: November 22, 2019
Outside of Pixar, Disney has rarely delved into theatrical sequels when it comes to their animated classics. Since “Frozen†became the highest-grossing animated feature of all time, though, it’s not surprising that Disney is bringing Arendelle back to the big screen. Having inspired a Broadway show, multiple short films, and a blizzard of merchandise since its 2013 release, it’s easy to understand why some feel “Frozen†is overexposed. Of course, it’s even easier to understand why fans won’t let “Frozen†go, what with its infectious soundtrack, empowering characters, and meaningful messages. Aside from doubling down on everything we loved about the original, “Frozen 2†could be a revolutionary family film if Disney gives Elsa a girlfriend.
3: “Avengers: Endgame†(2019)
Release Date: May 3, 2019 (US)
In addition to being Marvel’s most ambitious crossover to date, “Avengers: Infinity War†left audiences emotionally drained with its jaw-dropping cliffhanger. We all needed some time to collect ourselves once the credits rolled, which burned the words, “Thanos will return,†into our minds. Since then, we’ve been losing sleep over “Avengers 4,†theorizing how our heroes will restore order to a universe literally in ashes. Whatever happens next, this 22nd entry in the MCU will likely act as a swan song for several prominent players. While we may be in the endgame, we can at least take comfort in knowing that this cinematic universe still has so many more stories to tell.
2: “Aladdin†(2019)
Release Date: May 24, 2019 (US)
“The Lion King†isn’t the only Disney remake coming out in 2019, as (xref) Dumbo will fly again under Tim Burton’s direction and Guy Ritchie is hopping aboard a carpet for another Arabian night. The cast is refreshingly comprised of lesser known actors, with Mena Massoud as Aladdin and Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine. Will Smith is still bringing plenty ofstar power to the equation as the Genie, however. While nobody can ever replace the late Robin Williams, we have faith that Smith can make the role his own, just as Tony-winner James Monroe Iglehart did on Broadway. If we had three wishes, we’d definitely use one to make May 24th get here faster.
1: “Toy Story 4†(2019)
Release Date: June 21, 2019
Since “Toy Story 3†gave us a pitch perfect ending, people generally have mixed thoughts about this fourth film. But if sequels like “Incredibles 2†and “Finding Dory†are any indication, Pixar would only return to this franchise if they felt there was a story worth telling. Based on the teasers that’ve been released, they’re bringing some fresh voices to the mix to keep things interesting, but we’re still expecting to feel some feels. Seeing how both Tim Allen and Tom Hanks have already praised the latest film for its “emotional†impact, we’re optimistic that “Toy Story 4†will be a more than worthy addition the series.
Be sure to check out the video below to see our picks for the Top 10 Anticipated Movies That Are Already Hated
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