WhileDisneyis known for its iconic characters and plots, it has also had its fair share of forgotten sequels. Before streaming was commonplace, Disney released many direct-to-DVD sequels of their most popular films.Many found these stories unnecessary, often overcomplicating and negating the stellar reputation of the original classics. EvenWalt Disney didn’t support doing sequels, favoring the creativity of new content.
But now, some considerDisney to have a sequel problem, where it now relies too heavily on revamping content, instead of producing original storylines.Disney’s vast sequels and remake collectionshave become synonymous with the company. However,unlike in the past, these sequels often have a wide theatrical release, unlike the bountiful period of often-forgotten direct-to-DVD sequels. With over 20 home entertainment release films, it was hard to stand out, yet two very similar sequels were able to honor their originals appropriately.
The Lion King 2 And The Little Mermaid 2 Told The Same Story About Legacy
The Sequels Now See The Original Main Characters As The Authority Figures
BothThe Lion King 2andThe Little Mermaid 2revolve around the former main characters, Simba and Ariel, who have grown up and had a child of their own, Kiara and Melody, respectively.Both the children then take the role of the reckless and rebellious main character, who fights against their parents, just as Simba and Ariel once did. The films came out two years apart, but essentially had the same plot. Both of the beloved main characters learn about the importance of listening to adults and defining their legacy while trying to patiently manage their children.
Despite Ariel and Simba’s original protestations against their overbearing fathers, they become strict parents in their sequels. After growing up and having their own children, they realize that rules are essential to keeping order.They lose their rebellious nature between the first and second films. This evolution is an interesting choice, since Ariel and Simba are both known for their hardheadedness and reckless nature, and they become less unique in their sequels. Both franchises also became trilogies and were adapted into television series.
Disney’s Straight-To-DVD Sequels Weren’t Known For Innovative Stories
They Were Often Rushed To Capitalize On The Success Of The Originals
Disney produced manysequels that went straight to DVD, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s.Many were attempting to capitalize on the success of the original filmsand were quick to try to create a new storyline for the beloved characters. The sequels often reused these iconic characters, sometimes with the same voice actor, attempting to develop them further while maintaining their original charm.
It’s fitting that both Simba and Ariel now have to learn about rebellious children from a parent’s point of view, reusing those themes from the original from a different perspective.
After the high expectations that the original films set, many found that the direct-to-DVD sequels lacked the same complexities and creativity in their plots. Because of the rushed production and duty to the original characters, the stories became more formulaic,relying on recycled plots and themes from the originals. It’s fitting that both Simba and Ariel now have to learn about rebellious children from a parent’s point of view, reusing those themes from the original from a different perspective.
What Makes Simba’s Pride And Return To The Sea Stand Out From Other Disney Sequels
They Most Successfully Build On The Stories Of The Originals
While many direct-to-DVD sequels are dismissed and often disliked,Simba’s PrideandReturn To The Seaare appropriate additions to the beloved source material. Though neither has particularly stellar reviews,they were relatively well-received, especially compared to Disney’s other direct-to-DVD sequels. This is both because of the themes they address, which are more profound than the surface-level role reversal of the main characters, and the affinity for the original films.
Disney: The 12 Best Direct-To-Video Sequels
Disney’s direct-to-video sequels aren’t always held in high regard, but these are actually quite good and the best Disney ever made.
Inspired byRomeo and Juliet,Simba’s Prideaddresses themes of prejudice, forgiveness, and unity that span generational differences.Return to the Seafocuses on adventure, family, and identity, enriching the already fantastical world of the original story.They also both maintain a high standard of animation and music, closely following, though not equaling, the format and essence of their predecessors. Both franchises are going strong, each having a live-action remake in the last five years.
BothThe Lion King 2andThe Little Mermaid 2are available to stream on Disney+.
Despite the stigma of the direct-to-DVD sequels, both films stood out in a crowd ofoften-forgotten Disney films.Simba’s Prideis even regarded as one of the best Disney sequels,receiving praise for its storytelling and emotional weight. The original movie,The Lion King, once held the title of the highest-grossing animated film of all time, giving any sequels much to live up to.Return To The Seaalso successfully filled a niche for fans ofThe Little Mermaid, contributing to the franchise’s ongoing legacy. While not allDisneysequels have succeeded, these two films were able to stand out despite strangely similar plots.
The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride
Cast
The Lion King 2, also known as The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride, is a direct-to-video release unveiled in 1998 that acted as a direct sequel to the original Disney feature film. This title sees Simba and Nala’s daughter Kiara rebelling against her father’s overprotective nature and branching out where she meets another cub from a far away place.
