I admit that "THE LION KING II" is indeed not as classic as "I", and the above shortcomings are indeed the failure of "II", but "THE LION KING II" is definitely a high-end film. If we always compare "THE LION KING II" with "I", we won't know more about "II". From a certain perspective, the main role of "II" has changed. Compared with "I" which elaborated on the life experience of SIMBA, "II" is more about the inner world between KOVU and KIARA, rather than the personal aspects of SIMBA or NALA. I think this may be the disappointment of friends who are keen on "I". But apart from this, I think "II" shows something deeper.
First of all, the little princess KIARA's rebellion against the doomed princess identity has become a major focus of the film. She always tries to get rid of the doomed identity almost throughout the film. But I think this is by no means a simple child who is naughty and naughty. No matter what kind of additional regulations, they can't restrain an immature heart full of life and passion. This heart's thirst for life surpasses everything. In such a repressive environment, KIARA's rebellion has been sublimated into a behavior that violates the rules of the world in order to seek the true self. The little princess sang well in the song "WE ARE ONE". She didn't want to be just a part of people's plans. She wanted to find her true self.
Next, there is a huge change in the character of KOVU. I think the character of KOVU is quite successful, and the fierce struggle in his heart is very vivid in the film. KOVU, who has been instilled in revenge and assassination by ZERA since he was a child, has never had real happiness, has never felt real care, real love. His understanding of life is revenge and killing. However, the kind and lovely princess KIARA's sincere and simple heart gave KOVU real happiness and made him feel that life, in addition to revenge, also has love. The former killer finally abandoned the seeds of hatred that had been planted by ZERA in his childhood. Empty hatred is worthless compared to true love. In KOVU's heart, SCAR has gradually changed from a distant and unfamiliar adoptive father to a lingering shadow. He decided to get rid of this destined shadow, to find a real life.
Finally, and most importantly, is the setting at the end. Maybe it's a bit old-fashioned, but I still think it's very good. "The kid of a robber will always be a robber." This sentence was put on a huge question mark by the film. The princess KIARA said "WE ARE ONE" and put the issue of racial discrimination in everyone's mind. Yes, they are all colorful lives, which should share a blue sky, but are forever separated by the so-called lowliness...
So in general, "THE LION KING II" still has some transcendence on the original basis.
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