Posted by: Lindi Hottin
Date: Nov. 26, 2007
I've recently been to see 'Enchanted', the new Disney compilation movie that's half animated, half live action, and although I noted the numerous intentional references to the six Princess films--- Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty and Snow White--- I also noticed that there was a very quick Lion King shadow, as well.
Without revealing any plot spoilers, I can safely say that during a book signing at the story's end, the animated world of Andalasia is lined up. Several of the characters here bear striking resemblances to some of Disney's more famous animal film stars, including Bambi, Thumper and Flower from 'Bambi', a likeness of Todd and Copper from 'The Fox and the Hound', and a realistic but not unrecognizeable approximation of--- drumroll--- Pumbaa! He's got his book balanced across his cute little tusks and everything... the only thing that would have made it even better is if Timon was sitting on top, like he almost always does.
It goes by very fast, but it is of note, because not every film that Disney made was incorporated into this mish-mosh tale. The Jungle Book, Alice in Wonderland, Dumbo, Robin Hood and Peter Pan are some of the more prominently known stories, all which have been omitted from the film. However, even though it was a very brief reference, it was undoubtedly directed at Lion King fans, and was included as a small salute to The Lion King's success. Where other movies were not given even the tiniest flash of screen time, The Lion King still made it up there, for however short a time.
Long Live The Lion King!