The Lion King Platinum Edition

The Lion King is an award winning film, released in 1994. In 2003, Disney released The Lion King Platinum Edition, enhancing the film's cinematic experience, as well as releasing extra bonus features and behind the scenes tours. However, the design was also re-sparking the magic and adventure of this historic movie.  The overall movie had a deeper message than just pursuing your dreams or following your heart, but it brought forth the reality that our past can hurt us, and what matters is what we choose to do now in spite of it.

This design specifically, carries that message with it. From the symbolism of Simba's birth being a new hope, to the image of adult Simba rising above the powers of darkness, fear, and most of all: his past. Many individuals growing up watching this movie could easily say that it has made their childhood and has even inspired them in unique ways. Therefore, it is relevant to acknowledge that this cover design carries a lot of weight with it. 

Release Date: 10/7/2003

Designer: Andy Gaskill and the Disney Production Team.

Sources:

“The Lion King: Platinum Special Edition – Animated Views.” n.d. https://animatedviews.com/2003/the-lion-king-platinum-special-edition/.

Kiefert, Coby. 2024. “The Circle of Life: Why THE LION KING Still Resonates 30 Years Later.” Film Inquiry. July 1, 2024. https://www.filminquiry.com/lion-king-still-resonates/.

“The Lion King: Platinum Edition DVD -- the Ultimate Guide to Disney DVD.” n.d. https://dvdizzy.com/lionking.html.