Is The Lion King the Number One Movie in the World?

The film industry uses the phrase “the number one movie in the world” to refer to whichever movie has earned the most at the worldwide box office that week. This title can fluctuate frequently with new releases and changing audience preferences.

The Lion King 2019 Remake

In 2019, The Lion King 2019 remake captured the title of “the number one movie in the world” for two consecutive weeks. It held this position from July 19-25 and July 26-August 1, 2019. This success came after the movie competed with Spider-Man: Far From Home and lost to Fast Furious Presents: Hobbs Shaw soon after.

Aesthetic and Reactions

Despite its impressive box office performance, very few people consider either the 1994 animated film The Lion King or its 2019 CGI remake to be the best movie ever made. This title typically belongs to classics such as Vertigo, Citizen Kane, and The Third Man, which have been heralded for their artistic merit and historic significance.

The Subjective Nature of Greatness

The number one movie in the world is a highly subjective opinion. It can vary greatly depending on personal preferences and cultural contexts. What one person considers the best movie, another may not. For instance, many critics and audiences rank The Lion King and its 2019 remake among the best animated films of their respective eras, but this does not necessarily mean they would place them at the very top of all-time great films.

Challenges in Defining the Best Movie

Creating a definitive list of the greatest or best movies is challenging. There are numerous factors to consider, including critical acclaim, box office success, artistic merit, and cultural impact. Many people rely on authoritative lists like those from film critics, film academies, and charity organizations. However, such lists often have biases and reflect the tastes of the compilers.

Personal Opinions and Preferences

As for my own opinion, the film that often tops my list of the greatest movies ever made is Vertigo. Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this psychological thriller is celebrated for its narrative complexity, innovative camera techniques, and deep psychological depth. Other films that often vie for the top spot on my list include Citizen Kane, The Third Man, and The Godfather. While The Lion King is undoubtedly a strong contender in the realm of animated films, it doesn’t place in the top echelons of the greatest films of all time, at least from my perspective.

Cultural Impact and Longevity

The longevity of a film’s impact is another factor that contributes to its legacy. The Lion King has had a profound influence on animation and popular culture, inspiring sequels, live-action adaptations, and even Broadway stage productions. However, the timeless appeal of classics like Vertigo and Citizen Kane is unparalleled, as they continue to resonate with audiences decades after their release, prompting frequent rewatchings and critical reappraisals.

Conclusion

The title of “number one movie in the world” is not just a matter of box office performance, but a complex interplay of factors, including artistic merit, cultural impact, and personal tastes. While The Lion King had a significant run as the number one movie in 2019, its position in the pantheon of all-time great films remains subjective and open to debate. Ultimately, the true measure of a film's greatness often lies in its ability to transcend time and endure the test of critical and popular opinion.