'The Lion King' Director Roger Allers Contemplates Classic 17 Years Later

Roger Allers co-directed one of Disney's most popular animated films, "The Lion King." I had a chance to question him when he was doing press for the release of the movie in theaters and on Blu-ray for the first time ever in 3D.

How involved were you in the actual 3D transfer of "The Lion King?"

["The Lion King" co-director] Rob Minkoff, myself, and [producer] Don Hahn watched the 2D version to determine which scenes could be pushed in 3D to enhance the storytelling and emotional content. Throughout the process, we then reviewed each scene to offer input to Robert Neuman [the 3D stereographer (converter)] and his crew. I also oversaw the color correction of the final version.

What about "The Lion King" do you feel makes it a classic?

It's the balance of humor and drama and the resonance of its themes. The issues of life, death, and loss. The responsibilities of leadership and finding one's place in life.

How has "The Lion King" changed your life?

Wow. It has connected me to the world in an intimate way that I could never imagine. As I have continued to work on all the international iterations of the stage musical, it still takes me around the world.

How does it feel to be an integral part of the Disney Renaissance?

When I was a kid, I always dreamed of going to work for Walt Disney and making animated features. In high school when Walt died, I was crushed and thought I had missed my chance. I am thrilled and proud to be a part of the "Second Wave!"

Share with us some memories of working with James Earl Jones.

Ha ha! The very first time we had James in to record, before doing his first lines he proceeded to clear his throat. The strength and resonance of his "harrrunfs" practically blew us off our chairs in the recording booth! That man IS a lion!

Can you share with us some memories of working with Jeremy Irons?

Jeremy is a gentleman and a brilliant actor. He always gave us extra interpretations of lines, which were fantastic. I think I'd put Jeremy's performance up on the top of all time best vocal performances.

Can you please talk about the contributions of Elton John, Tim Rice, and Hans Zimmer?

Elton and Tim's songs help tell the story with humor and heart while Hans' brilliant score and arrangements (along with Lebo M's choral work) gave it its scale, drama, and placed it in Africa. [Song Arranger] Mark Mancina's arrangements of "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" and "Hakuna Matata" gave the film its moments of playfulness.

What has been improved in the transfer to 3D and for Blu-ray?

Besides the obvious addition of new depth and dimension, this print has the best clarity and color of anything previously released.

What do you think the future holds for animated films?

I think the field will continue to open up in terms of technique and subject matter. The line between animated and live action has already become so blurred. The entire distinction may disappear.

Do you feel like the changes are for the better in the animated film industry?

The increase in diversity is really welcome, but I hope that traditional hand-drawn animation keeps being produced. It's an art form that's dear to my heart and one that I don't think has still been fully explored.

How do you feel the animated movie industry has changed since "The Lion King" first came out?

I see more movies of different styles coming from many more studios now. It's exciting. Bring 'em on!

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