38 Best Movies like The Lion King (2019)

The Lion King (1994) is the original animated classic that inspired the 2019 version, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in the iconic story and characters. With timeless animation and beloved songs, it remains captivating for audiences of all ages.

Young lion prince Simba, eager to one day become king of the Pride Lands, grows up under the watchful eye of his father Mufasa; all the while his villainous uncle Scar conspires to take the throne for himself. Amid betrayal and tragedy, Simba must confront his past and find his rightful place in the Circle of Life. The Lion King is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 29m runtime, released in 1994 with an average rating of 8.3 by 19,933 people. The movie made an estimated total of $763,455,561 in the box office.

Bambi earns a place here for its poignant coming-of-age journey through the animal kingdom, aligning with The Lion King's themes of growth and family. Its heartfelt emotional journey and evocative storytelling leave a lasting impression.

Bambi's tale unfolds from season to season as the young prince of the forest learns about life, love, and friends. Bambi is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 10m runtime, released in 1942 with an average rating of 7.0 by 6,083 people. The movie made an estimated total of $267,447,150 in the box office.

The Prince of Egypt stands out for exploring destiny and self-discovery against a backdrop of dramatic events. Its rich animation and emotionally resonant narrative make it both thought-provoking and visually stunning.

The strong bond between two Royal Egyptian brothers is challenged when their chosen responsibilities set them at odds, with extraordinary consequences. The Prince of Egypt is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 39m runtime, released in 1998 with an average rating of 7.3 by 4,369 people. The movie made an estimated total of $218,613,188 in the box office.

Kimba the White Lion: Symphonic Poem is included due to its examination of an animal heir navigating leadership, resonating with stories about inheriting responsibility. The film offers a unique and memorable musical experience.

After a spoken introduction describing the various musical instruments used, the film tells the story of Kimba the White Lion, from his birth, to his escape from a ship intended to take him far from home. The story is told entirely without dialogue, and showcases a symphonic tome poem composed by Isao Tomita, based in incidental music he composed for the original television series "Jangaru taitei" (1965) Kimba the White Lion: Symphonic Poem is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 51m runtime, released in 1991 with an average rating of 4.0 by 2 people.

The Land Before Time deserves mention for following young characters on a dangerous journey of survival and growth. Memorable animation and heartfelt friendships deliver a deeply rewarding family adventure.

An orphaned brontosaurus named Littlefoot sets off in search of the legendary Great Valley. A land of lush vegetation where the dinosaurs can thrive and live in peace. Along the way he meets four other young dinosaurs, each one a different species, and they encounter several obstacles as they learn to work together in order to survive. The Land Before Time is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 9m runtime, released in 1988 with an average rating of 7.2 by 2,787 people. The movie made an estimated total of $84,704,291 in the box office.

Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron follows a courageous animal protagonist striving for freedom, drawing viewers into a story of resilience and hope. Its lush visuals and stirring music create a distinctive cinematic adventure.

A captured mustang remains determined to return to his herd no matter what. Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 23m runtime, released in 2002 with an average rating of 7.7 by 4,975 people. The movie made an estimated total of $122,563,539 in the box office.

The Black Cauldron appears here for its tale of heroism amid fantasy dangers, where youthful bravery confronts daunting odds. The film's dark atmosphere and imaginative world offer an adventure distinct within animation.

Taran is an assistant pigkeeper with boyish dreams of becoming a great warrior. However, he has to put the daydreaming aside when his charge, an oracular pig named Hen Wen, is kidnapped by an evil lord known as the Horned King. The villain hopes Hen will show him the way to The Black Cauldron, which has the power to create a giant army of unstoppable soldiers. The Black Cauldron is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 20m runtime, released in 1985 with an average rating of 6.4 by 1,459 people. The movie made an estimated total of $21,300,000 in the box office.

Brother Bear is recommended for its transformational character journey involving family and self-discovery within an animated wilderness. Vibrant settings and emotional storytelling provide a memorable viewing experience.

When an impulsive boy named Kenai is magically transformed into a bear, he must literally walk in another's footsteps until he learns some valuable life lessons. His courageous and often zany journey introduces him to a forest full of wildlife, including the lovable bear cub Koda, hilarious moose Rutt and Tuke, woolly mammoths and rambunctious rams. Brother Bear is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 25m runtime, released in 2003 with an average rating of 7.3 by 5,819 people. The movie made an estimated total of $250,397,798 in the box office.

Balto belongs on this list for depicting an animal-led quest through adversity, highlighting themes of courage and perseverance. Its engaging storyline and heartfelt moments contribute to its enduring appeal.

An outcast half-wolf risks his life to prevent a deadly epidemic from ravaging Nome, Alaska. Balto is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 18m runtime, released in 1995 with an average rating of 7.3 by 2,240 people. The movie made an estimated total of $11,348,324 in the box office.

The Jungle Book (2016) earns inclusion for its vibrant animal kingdom and young protagonist's adventure amidst wilderness and danger. This adaptation impresses with visually immersive storytelling and memorable animal characters.

After a threat from the tiger Shere Khan, Mowgli, a man-cub fostered by wolves, is forced to flee the jungle, and he embarks on a journey of self-discovery with the help of the panther, Bagheera, and the free-spirited bear, Baloo. The Jungle Book is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 46m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 6.9 by 8,574 people. The movie made an estimated total of $966,550,600 in the box office.

The Good Dinosaur explores the challenges of growing up through the lens of animated wilderness and unlikely friendships, capturing audiences with its stunning visuals and emotional heart.

An epic journey into the world of dinosaurs where an Apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. The Good Dinosaur is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 33m runtime, released in 2015 with an average rating of 6.7 by 6,091 people. The movie made an estimated total of $332,207,671 in the box office.

Wolf Children examines a mother's journey raising unique children, blending family and coming-of-age elements in a remarkable fashion. The film stands out for its emotional depth and beautiful animation.

After her werewolf lover unexpectedly dies in an accident, a woman must find a way to raise the son and daughter that she had with him. However, their inheritance of their father's traits prove to be a challenge for her. Wolf Children is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 1h 57m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 8.2 by 2,510 people. The movie made an estimated total of $55,262,158 in the box office.

The Secret of NIMH earns its spot by weaving suspenseful adventure and high-stakes drama into an animated animal narrative. Its atmospheric tone and compelling characters create a distinct and memorable story.

A widowed field mouse must move her family -- including an ailing son -- to escape a farmer's plow. Aided by a crow and a pack of superintelligent, escaped lab rats, the brave mother struggles to transplant her home to firmer ground. The Secret of NIMH is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 23m runtime, released in 1982 with an average rating of 7.4 by 962 people. The movie made an estimated total of $14,665,733 in the box office.

Tarzan is featured due to its protagonist's journey of self-discovery in a lush, animated natural world, highlighting themes of identity and belonging. Its energetic pacing and memorable soundtrack enhance the adventure.

Tarzan was a small orphan who was raised by an ape named Kala since he was a child. He believed that this was his family, but on an expedition Jane Porter is rescued by Tarzan. He then finds out that he's human. Now Tarzan must make the decision as to which family he should belong to... Tarzan is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 28m runtime, released in 1999 with an average rating of 7.4 by 7,421 people. The movie made an estimated total of $448,200,000 in the box office.

The Iron Giant engages with themes of personal responsibility and courage through a story of friendship between an unlikely duo. Its heartfelt narrative and impactful message resonate across generations.

In the small town of Rockwell, Maine in October 1957, a giant metal machine befriends a nine-year-old boy and ultimately finds its humanity by unselfishly saving people from their own fears and prejudices. The Iron Giant is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 26m runtime, released in 1999 with an average rating of 8.0 by 6,280 people. The movie made an estimated total of $23,300,000 in the box office.

Moana appears for its story about embracing one's destiny and overcoming fear to lead, set within a beautifully animated environment. The movie delights with rich visuals, dynamic music, and an inspiring protagonist.

In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by Maui reaches an impetuous Chieftain's daughter's island, she answers the Ocean's call to seek out the demigod to set things right. Moana is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.6 by 13,894 people. The movie made an estimated total of $690,860,472 in the box office.

Song of the Sea finds its place here for its exploration of family and loss within a magical animated world. Its enchanting artistry and emotional storytelling create a unique and touching viewing experience.

The story of the last Seal Child’s journey home. After their mother’s disappearance, Ben and Saoirse are sent to live with Granny in the city. When they resolve to return to their home by the sea, their journey becomes a race against time as they are drawn into a world Ben knows only from his mother’s folktales. But this is no bedtime story; these fairy folk have been in our world far too long. It soon becomes clear to Ben that Saoirse is the key to their survival. Song of the Sea is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2014 with an average rating of 8.0 by 1,604 people. The movie made an estimated total of $857,522 in the box office.

The Breadwinner is recommended for its moving story of youthful determination and resilience amid adversity, told through expressive animation that offers fresh cultural perspectives.

A headstrong young girl in Afghanistan, ruled by the Taliban, disguises herself as a boy in order to provide for her family. The Breadwinner is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 7.9 by 938 people. The movie made an estimated total of $2,790,214 in the box office.

How to Train Your Dragon makes the list for its engaging journey of personal growth against magnificent animated landscapes and mythical creatures. Its exciting action and strong character development appeal to viewers of all ages.

As the son of a Viking leader on the cusp of manhood, shy Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III faces a rite of passage: he must kill a dragon to prove his warrior mettle. But after downing a feared dragon, he realizes that he no longer wants to destroy it, and instead befriends the beast – which he names Toothless – much to the chagrin of his warrior father. How to Train Your Dragon is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 38m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 7.9 by 14,563 people. The movie made an estimated total of $495,141,736 in the box office.

Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle is included thanks to its adventure through animal societies and struggles with belonging. Its dramatic tone and immersive setting provide a fresh take on a classic tale.

A human child raised by wolves, must face off against a menacing tiger named Shere Khan, as well as his own origins. Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 6.5 by 2,627 people.

Epic is here for bringing audiences into a fantastical natural world where young heroes embark on quests. Its imaginative visuals and energetic narrative make it a lively animated adventure.

A teenager finds herself transported to a deep forest setting where a battle between the forces of good and the forces of evil is taking place. She bands together with a rag-tag group characters in order to save their world—and ours. Epic is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 6.6 by 2,979 people. The movie made an estimated total of $268,426,634 in the box office.

Azur & Asmar: The Princes' Quest stands out for its tale of two boys on a royal journey, relating to themes of destiny and adventure. Its striking animation and engaging storytelling enhance its distinct charm.

Raised on tales of a Djinn fairy princess, Azur, a young Frenchman goes to North Africa in search of the sprite, only to discover that his close childhood friend, Asmar, an Arab youth whose mother raised both boys also seeks the genie. Azur & Asmar: The Princes' Quest is a movie from Belgium in French, with a total 1h 39m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 7.7 by 671 people.

The Boy and the Beast joins the list for its tale of a youth undergoing a transformative journey in a fantastical society, exploring growth and mentorship with dynamic animation and compelling character arcs.

Kyuta, a boy living in Shibuya, and Kumatetsu, a lonesome beast from Jutengai, an imaginary world. One day, Kyuta forays into the imaginary world and, as he's looking for his way back, meets Kumatetsu who becomes his spirit guide. That encounter leads them to many adventures. The Boy and the Beast is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 1h 59m runtime, released in 2015 with an average rating of 7.9 by 1,627 people. The movie made an estimated total of $49,714,378 in the box office.

The Tale of The Princess Kaguya finds relevance here with its focus on heritage, responsibility, and personal discovery. The film is notably celebrated for its exquisite, hand-drawn visual style and evocative emotional layers.

Found inside a shining stalk of bamboo by an old bamboo cutter and his wife, a tiny girl grows rapidly into an exquisite young lady. The mysterious young princess enthrals all who encounter her. But, ultimately, she must confront her fate. The Tale of The Princess Kaguya is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 17m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 8.1 by 2,020 people. The movie made an estimated total of $24,366,656 in the box office.

Watership Down is featured for its emotionally intense exploration of animal societies facing existential challenges. Its unique blend of adventure and mature themes distinguishes it within animated storytelling.

When the warren belonging to a community of rabbits is threatened, a brave group led by Fiver, Bigwig, Blackberry and Hazel leave their homeland in a search of a safe new haven. Watership Down is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 32m runtime, released in 1978 with an average rating of 7.2 by 718 people. The movie made an estimated total of $3,713,768 in the box office.

The Rescuers Down Under is included for its adventurous spirit, following heroics in the wild Australian outback. Exciting action sequences and charming characters make it a standout family film.

A lawless poacher wants to capture a majestic and rare golden eagle, so he kidnaps the boy who knows where to find the bird. Not to worry -- the Rescue Aid Society's top agents, heroic mice Miss Bianca and Bernard, fly to Australia to save the day. Accompanying the fearless duo are bumbling albatross Wilbur and local field operative Jake the Kangaroo Rat. The Rescuers Down Under is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 17m runtime, released in 1990 with an average rating of 6.6 by 1,416 people. The movie made an estimated total of $47,431,461 in the box office.

Princess Mononoke makes the list for delving into the relationship between humans and nature, framed by intricate storytelling and a captivating atmosphere. Its rich animation and epic scale set it apart.

Ashitaka, a prince of the disappearing Emishi people, is cursed by a demonized boar god and must journey to the west to find a cure. Along the way, he encounters San, a young human woman fighting to protect the forest, and Lady Eboshi, who is trying to destroy it. Ashitaka must find a way to bring balance to this conflict. Princess Mononoke is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 14m runtime, released in 1997 with an average rating of 8.3 by 9,151 people. The movie made an estimated total of $176,506,186 in the box office.

Ladyhawke is recommended for its medieval fantasy setting involving transformative journeys and epic stakes. The film's blend of adventure, romance, and atmospheric visuals provides a memorable fantasy experience.

Captain Etienne Navarre is a man on whose shoulders lies a cruel curse. Punished for loving each other, Navarre must become a wolf by night whilst his lover, Lady Isabeau, takes the form of a hawk by day. Together, with the thief Philippe Gaston, they must try to overthrow the corrupt Bishop and in doing so break the spell. Ladyhawke is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 1m runtime, released in 1985 with an average rating of 7.0 by 1,272 people. The movie made an estimated total of $18,432,000 in the box office.

The Last Unicorn appears for spotlighting a mystical creature on a quest for identity and belonging. Its hauntingly beautiful animation and poetic narrative leave a lasting impression.

A unicorn learns from a riddle-speaking butterfly that she is supposedly the last of her kind, all the others having been herded away by the monstrous Red Bull. The unicorn sets out to discover the truth behind the butterfly's words. She is eventually joined on her quest by Schmendrick, a second-rate magician, and Molly Grue, a middle-aged woman who dreamed all her life of seeing a unicorn. Their journey leads them far from home, all the way to the castle of King Haggard. The Last Unicorn is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 33m runtime, released in 1982 with an average rating of 7.3 by 605 people. The movie made an estimated total of $6,455,530 in the box office.

Khumba deserves inclusion due to its protagonist's journey through the animal kingdom to find acceptance. The movie stands out with its humor, heart, and distinctive animated landscapes.

A half-striped zebra is blamed for the drought and leaves his herd in search of his missing stripes. He is joined on his quest by an overprotective wildebeest and a flamboyant ostrich; they defeat the tyrannical leopard and save his herd. Khumba is a movie from South Africa in English, with a total 1h 25m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 6.0 by 273 people. The movie made an estimated total of $27,200,000 in the box office.

The Bear is relevant for its immersive portrayal of animal life and survival in the wild, offering a powerful and often wordless glimpse into nature's challenges through atmospheric storytelling.

An orphan bear cub hooks up with an adult male as they try to dodge human hunters. The Bear is a movie from France in French, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 1988 with an average rating of 7.1 by 530 people. The movie made an estimated total of $138,241,022 in the box office.

Brave appears on this list for following a young figure confronting family expectations and shaping her destiny within stunning animated environments. Its adventurous tone and strong central character make it widely engaging.

In the mystical Scottish Highlands, Merida is the princess of a kingdom ruled by King Fergus and Queen Elinor. An unruly daughter and an accomplished archer, Merida one day defies a sacred custom of the land and inadvertently brings turmoil to the kingdom. In an attempt to set things right, Merida seeks out an eccentric old Wise Woman and is granted an ill-fated wish. Also figuring into Merida's quest — and serving as comic relief — are the kingdom's three lords: the enormous Lord MacGuffin, the surly Lord Macintosh, and the disagreeable Lord Dingwall. Brave is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 33m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 7.0 by 14,328 people. The movie made an estimated total of $538,983,207 in the box office.

Rio 2 fits well for its vibrant depiction of animal communities in spectacular settings, capturing the energy of animated adventure with musical flair and lively characters.

It's a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids after they're hurtled from Rio de Janeiro to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all: his father-in-law. Rio 2 is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 41m runtime, released in 2014 with an average rating of 6.5 by 3,816 people. The movie made an estimated total of $498,781,117 in the box office.

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs earns a place for its group of animal protagonists embarking on a perilous journey in a wild, prehistoric world, enhanced by humor and dynamic animation.

Times are changing for Manny the moody mammoth, Sid the motor mouthed sloth and Diego the crafty saber-toothed tiger. Life heats up for our heroes when they meet some new and none-too-friendly neighbors – the mighty dinosaurs. Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2009 with an average rating of 6.8 by 8,981 people. The movie made an estimated total of $886,686,817 in the box office.

Mulan is included for its character-driven story about embracing destiny and overcoming challenges with courage, set within an animated epic. Iconic music and memorable moments highlight its enduring appeal.

When Imperial China calls one man from every family to defend the empire from invading Huns, a young woman disguises herself as a soldier to take her ailing father’s place. Facing ruthless invaders, brutal training, and the risk of execution if discovered, she must decide who she truly is— and what she’s willing to fight for. Mulan is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 28m runtime, released in 1998 with an average rating of 7.9 by 10,575 people. The movie made an estimated total of $304,320,254 in the box office.

Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole features a young hero's quest amidst beautifully rendered fantasy worlds, offering striking visuals and a rousing tale of bravery.

When a young owl is abducted by an evil Owl army, he must escape with new-found friends and seek the legendary Guardians to stop the menace. Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 6.8 by 2,525 people. The movie made an estimated total of $140,073,390 in the box office.

Raya and the Last Dragon is recommended due to its combination of adventure, personal growth, and stunning animation in a mythical setting, delivering a fresh and engaging take on heroism.

Long ago, in the fantasy world of Kumandra, humans and dragons lived together in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people. Raya and the Last Dragon is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2021 with an average rating of 7.8 by 7,367 people. The movie made an estimated total of $130,423,032 in the box office.

The Ant Bully finds its place here for exploring growth and teamwork through a fantastical, animated journey within an insect world. Its playful narrative and colorful visuals entertain a wide audience.

Fed up with being targeted by the neighborhood bully, 10-year-old Lucas Nickle vents his frustrations on the anthill in his front yard ... until the insects shrink him to the size of a bug with a magic elixir. Convicted of "crimes against the colony," Lucas can only regain his freedom by living with the ants and learning their ways. The Ant Bully is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 29m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 5.8 by 1,491 people. The movie made an estimated total of $55,200,000 in the box office.