 |
Lebo M:
♪ Nants ingonyama bagithi baba. Sithi uhm ingonyama. Ingonyama. [The sun rises, turning the sky from black to red.] Nants ingonyama bagithi baba. [Various animals, including a rhino, several topi, and a colony of meerkats, lift their heads in the direction of the sun.] Sithi uhm ingonyama. [A cheetah pauses on the edge of a ridge, tail lashing.] Ingonyama. Siyo nqoba. Ingonyama. [Storks walk through a shallow body of water, look at one another, then take to the air.] ♪
Chorus:
♪ Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. [A flock of birds flies past a giant waterfall.] Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. [A herd of elephants marches past Mount Kilimanjaro. A flock of birds begins to follow overhead.] Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. (Sithi uhm.) Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. [Flamingos fly over a river. Above them, more and more flamingos join in, flying in the same direction.] Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. (Sithi uhm.) Ingonyama nengw' enamabala. [A herd of springbok prances through the mist.] ♪
Carmen Twillie:
♪ From the day we arrive on the planet [An adult giraffe crests a hill, followed by a baby.] and, blinking, step into the sun, [The baby giraffe steps into the sunlight, closing its eyes against the glare.] there's more to see than can ever be seen, [The giraffes survey a large group of animals moving across the savanna down below, then descend the ridge to join them.] more to do than can ever be done. [Ants carrying leaves march across a branch. A zebra herd frolics below.] There's far too much to take in here, [A flock of guinea fowl bobs along the ground, with elephants slowly moving into view behind them.] more to find than can ever be found. [A lone guinea fowl hurries out of the dust, nearly getting trampled by an elephant.] But the sun rolling high [The reflection of the sun in a river is shattered as the group of animals crosses.] through the sapphire sky [A herd of zebras splashes through the river.] keeps great and small on the endless round. [More animals cross the river, including an elephant with birds resting on its tusks.] It's the circle of life, [A crowd of animals gathers around Pride Rock.] and it moves us all, [Zazu swoops over the herd, heading toward Mufasa, who stands alone on the promontory.] through despair and hope, through faith and love, [Zazu bows to Mufasa, then looks up. Mufasa glares down at Zazu before his face breaks into a warm smile.] till we find our place [A herd of kudus watches as the tip of a staff bobs between them. The animals part to make way for Rafiki. Mufasa smiles down at him.] on the path unwinding [Rafiki climbs Pride Rock.] in the circle, [Once at the top, Rafiki embraces Mufasa.] the circle of life. [Mufasa and Rafiki look expectantly behind them.] ♪
[Sarabi sits with a golden bundle in her paws. Mufasa approaches, and the two nuzzle. Sarabi licks the bundle, which turns to reveal the infant Simba. Rafiki beams at Simba, then shakes his staff over the cub. Simba paws at the gourds. Rafiki breaks a gourd open, dips his thumb in the juice, and marks Simba's forehead. Rafiki grabs a handful of sand and sprinkles it over Simba, causing him to sneeze. Mufasa and Sarabi nuzzle. Rafiki takes Simba in his arms and carries him away, with Mufasa and Sarabi exchanging a joyful look. As Rafiki nears the promontory, the animals below raise their heads expectantly.]
Carmen Twillie:
♪ It's the circle of life, [Rafiki lifts Simba into the air for all the animals to see. In answer, the animals rear onto their hind legs. Elephants raise their trunks and trumpet.] and it moves us all, [Monkeys cheer, jumping and stamping the ground. Zebras bray and stamp, raising dust.] through despair and hope, through faith and love, [Simba watches the scene below him, seemingly confused and unaffected.] till we find our place [A single beam of light shines through the clouds, illuminating Simba.] on the path unwinding [The animals bow to Simba.] in the circle, the circle of life. [The sun shines down on Pride Rock, with the animals watching as Simba is presented from atop Pride Rock.] ♪
[The title card appears, then fades. A mouse scurries across the floor of a cave, sniffs the air, and washes its face. For a moment, it sits peacefully. Then it rears onto its hind legs, smelling the air, and a giant clawed paw crushes it. Slowly, the paw draws the struggling, squealing mouse into the air to reveal Scar.]
Scar:
Life's not fair, is it? You see, I... Well, I shall never be king. Huh. [Scar lets the mouse scurry across his paw.] And you... [The mouse tries to jump to freedom, but Scar snags it in his claws again.] shall never see the light of another day. Hmm, hmm. Adieu. [Scar opens his jaws and lowers the mouse into his mouth.]
Zazu:
Didn't your mother ever tell you not to play with your food?
Scar:
[The mouse struggles to wriggle out from under Scar's paw, to no avail.] What do you want?
Zazu:
I'm here to announce that King Mufasa's on his way, [Zazu bows over one wing.] so you'd better have a good excuse for missing the ceremony this morning. [With Scar distracted, the mouse wriggles out of his grasp and escapes into a nearby hole in the wall.]
Scar:
Oh, now look, Zazu. You've made me lose my lunch.
Zazu:
Ha! You'll lose more than that when the king gets through with you. He's as mad as a hippo with a hernia. [Zazu crosses his wings huffily.]
Scar:
Oooh, I quiver with fear! [Scar crouches and bares his teeth at Zazu.]
Zazu:
[Zazu backs away as Scar creeps closer.] Now, Scar, don't look at me that way. Help! [Zazu tries to fly away, but Scar catches him in his jaws.]
Mufasa:
[Mufasa's paw steps into view behind Scar.] Scar?
Scar:
[Scar looks at Mufasa over his shoulder, his cheeks puffed out.] Mm-hmm?
Mufasa:
Drop him.
Zazu:
[Zazu's beak pokes out of Scar's mouth.] Impeccable timing, Your Majesty. [Scar spits out Zazu, who sits up with saliva-plastered wings.] Ugh.
Scar:
Why, if it isn't my big brother [Scar saunters toward Mufasa.] descending from on high to mingle with the commoners. [Scar turns and saunters away.]
Mufasa:
Sarabi and I didn't see you at the presentation of Simba.
Scar:
That was today? Oh, I feel simply awful! [Scar drags his claws along the wall, creating a screeching sound that makes Zazu cringe.] Must've slipped my mind.
Zazu:
Yes, well, as slippery as your mind is, [Zazu flies accusingly into Scar's face.] as the king's brother, you should've been first in line! [Scar snaps his jaws shut, causing Zazu to take refuge behind Mufasa's leg.]
Scar:
Well, I was first in line... [Zazu peeks out at Scar, indignant.] until the little hairball was born. [Scar thrusts his face toward Zazu, who ducks back behind Mufasa's leg.]
Mufasa:
[Mufasa lowers his head to Scar's level.] That hairball is my son [Mufasa and Scar lift their heads simultaneously.] and your future king.
Scar:
Oh, I shall practice my curtsy. [Scar turns and walks away.]
Mufasa:
Don't turn your back on me, Scar.
Scar:
[Scar looks over his shoulder at Mufasa.] Oh, no, Mufasa. Perhaps you shouldn't turn your back on me. [Once more, Scar turns and walks away.]
Mufasa:
[Mufasa launches himself after Scar.] *roars* [Mufasa blocks Scar's way and advances threateningly.] Is that a challenge?!
Scar:
Temper, temper. I wouldn't dream [Scar rolls his eyes.] of challenging you.
Zazu:
[Zazu emerges from under Mufasa.] Pity. Why not? [Zazu puts his wings on his hips.]
Scar:
[Scar ducks his head to address Zazu.] Well, as far as brains go, I got the lion's share, but when it comes to brute strength... [Scar lifts his head to address Mufasa, clearly bitter and incensed. After a moment, the expression fades, and he shoulders past Mufasa, who glares at him. Scar looks back at Mufasa and Zazu.] I'm afraid I'm at the shallow end of the gene pool. [Scar walks off into the savanna.]
Zazu:
*sighs* There's one in every family, sire. Two in mine, actually. [Zazu flies up to perch on Mufasa's shoulder.] And they always manage to ruin special occasions.
Mufasa:
What am I going to do with him?
Zazu:
[Zazu grins cheekly.] He'd make a very handsome throw rug.
Mufasa:
[Mufasa grins back.] Zazu!
Zazu:
And just think, [Zazu flies ahead of Mufasa, who walks after him.] whenever he gets dirty, you could take him out and beat him!
Mufasa:
*chuckles*
[The scene fades. Clouds roil over the savanna. Thunder rumbles, and curtains of rain fall in the distance. The smooth surface of a river is disrupted by heavy rainfall. Thunder booms, and lightning zigzags across the sky, illuminating Rafiki's lone baobab tree. Inside, Rafiki uses a gourd to paint a lion cub, with lightning occasionally lighting up his canvas.]
Rafiki:
*mutters* Ah. [Rafiki sets down one gourd and picks up another.] Hmm. [Rafiki smiles at his handiwork.] *laughs* [Rafiki dips his thumb in the paint and smears it across the painted cub's forehead.] Simba. *chuckles*
[The screen grows dark around the painting of Simba before it disappears completely. The scene transitions to an early dawn at Pride Rock. Simba, now a cub, emerges on the promontory, his tail raised. With an excited look, he races away.]
Simba:
[Simba races into the den, where the pride is sleeping.] Dad! Dad! Come on, Dad. We gotta go. Wake up! [Simba dodges around the lionesses, jostling them.]
Lioness:
Oof!
Simba:
Sorry!
Mufasa:
*snores*
Simba:
[Simba jumps up on Mufasa, who is sound asleep.] Dad! [Simba's expression turns dour when Mufasa does not respond.] Dad.
Sarabi:
Your son is awake.
Simba: (in the background)
Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad, Dad.
Mufasa:
Before sunrise, he's your son.
Simba:
Dad! Come on, Dad. [Simba tugs Mufasa's ear, but loses his grip and tumbles out of view.] Whoa! [Simba headbutts Mufasa's face, and Mufasa sleepily opens one eye.] You promised! [Simba glares at Mufasa.]
Mufasa:
Okay, okay. I'm up, I'm up.
Simba:
Yeah! [Simba races away excitedly.]
Mufasa:
*yawns*
[Simba skips out of the den, with Mufasa and Sarabi emerging shortly afterward. Simba bounces up to Sarabi and rubs against her leg affectionately. Sarabi gives his rump an encouraging nudge and watches, smiling, as Mufasa and Simba begin to ascend Pride Rock. The next shot shows the top of Pride Rock illuminated by the rising sun, with Mufasa and Simba sitting side-by-side atop the summit.]
Mufasa:
Look, Simba. Everything the light touches is our kingdom.
Simba:
Wow.
Mufasa:
A king's time as ruler rises and falls like the sun. One day, Simba, the sun will set on my time here and will rise with you [Mufasa ducks down to Simba's level.] as the new king.
Simba:
And this'll all be mine?
Mufasa:
Everything.
Simba:
[Simba strides along the edge of Pride Rock, overlooking the Pride Lands.] Everything the light touches. [Simba sits.] What about that shadowy place? [Simba looks back at Mufasa questioningly.]
Mufasa:
[Mufasa strides toward Simba sternly.] That's beyond our borders. You must never go there, Simba.
Simba:
But I thought a king can do whatever he wants.
Mufasa:
[Mufasa smiles.] Oh, there's more to being king than getting your way all the time. [Mufasa strides away.]
Simba:
[Simba follows Mufasa, grinning.] There's more?
Mufasa:
*laughs* Simba...
[The scene transitions. Gazelles prance across the savanna. Nearby, Mufasa and Simba stride side-by-side, with Pride Rock in the distance.]
Mufasa:
Everything you see exists together in a delicate balance. As king, you need to understand that balance and respect all the creatures, from the crawling ant to the leaping antelope.
Simba:
But, Dad, don't we eat the antelope?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa ducks down to Simba's level.] Yes, Simba, but let me explain. [Mufasa lifts his head.] When we die, our bodies become the grass, and the antelope eat the grass. And so [Mufasa ducks down to Simba's level.] we are all connected in the great Circle of Life. [Mufasa gestures with his head to a river, where gazelles cavort and giraffes graze from trees.]
Zazu:
[Zazu swoops in from overhead.] Good morning, sire!
Mufasa:
Good morning, Zazu.
Zazu:
[Zazu lands on a nearby boulder.] Checking in with the morning report! [Zazu bows.]
Mufasa:
Fire away.
Zazu:
Well! [Zazu speaks with one wing shielding his beak, as if to spread gossip.] The buzz from the bees is that the leopards are in a bit of a spot. [A grasshopper jumps past Simba, who takes chase.]
Mufasa:
Oh, really?
Zazu:
And the baboons are going ape over this. [Simba continues to hunt the grasshopper, and Mufasa takes notice.] Of course, the giraffes are acting like they're above it all...
Mufasa:
What are you doing, son?
Simba:
[Simba attempts to catch the grasshopper on a rock, but opens his paws to emptiness.] Pouncing.
Mufasa:
[Mufasa ducks down conspiratorially.] Let an old pro show you how it's done.
Zazu:
The tickbirds are pecking on the elephants. I told the elephants to forget it, but they can't... [Zazu shrugs dramatically.]
Mufasa:
Zazu, would you turn around?
Zazu:
Yes, sire. [Zazu turns around.] The cheetahs are hard up, but I always say...
Mufasa:
[Mufasa uses a paw to lower Simba's rump.] Stay low to the ground.
Zazu:
[Zazu waves a wing emphatically.] Cheetahs never prosper...
Simba:
Yeah, okay. [Zazu glances quizzically at Mufasa and Simba over his shoulder.] Stay low to the ground, right? Yeah.
Zazu:
What's going on?
Mufasa:
Pouncing lesson.
Zazu:
Oh, very good. Pouncing. [Zazu turns away, apparently satisfied. Suddenly, he spasms.] Pouncing?! [Zazu turns back to face Mufasa.] Oh, no, sire, you can't be serious... [Mufasa gestures with one paw for Zazu to turn around.] Oh... [Zazu reluctantly turns around.] This is so humiliating.
Mufasa:
Try not to make a sound.
Zazu:
[Zazu glances over his shoulder.] What are you telling him, Mufasa? [Zazu looks behind him to find that Mufasa and Simba have seemingly disappeared.] Mufasa? [Zazu tenses his body.] Simba? [Simba pounces on Zazu.] *squawks*
Mufasa:
*laughs* [Simba glances over his shoulder at Mufasa, grinning, before he strides away. Meanwhile, Zazu lies on his back in the dirt. Simba returns to Mufasa.] That's very good! *laughs*
Mole:
[The mole pops out of a hole in the dirt right beneath Zazu's head.] Zazu!
Zazu:
Yes!
Mole:
[The mole salutes Zazu.] Sir! News from the underground.
Mufasa:
[Mufasa wraps a paw around Simba.] Now, this time–
Zazu:
Sire! [Zazu's head emerges from behind a rock, his eyes wide and terrified.] Hyenas! In the Pride Lands!
Mufasa:
[Mufasa starts to bound away, but pauses to look at Zazu.] Zazu, take Simba home.
Simba:
[Simba strides after Mufasa.] Awww, Dad, can't I come?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa shakes his head.] No, son. [Mufasa runs off into the savanna.]
Simba:
[Simba stalks off with his head low.] Pah! I never get to go anywhere.
Zazu:
Oh, young master, one day, you will be king. [Zazu gestures with a wing. He takes to the air and flies over Simba, who is heading toward Pride Rock.] Then you can chase those slobbering, mangy, stupid poachers from dawn until dusk.
[The scene transitions. Scar prowls along a rock ledge. He pauses, then agitatedly knocks a bone off the edge. As Scar continues to slink along, Simba bounds into view.]
Simba:
Hey, Uncle Scar, guess what?
Scar:
[Scar pauses. He turns and glowers at Simba.] I despise guessing games.
Simba:
[Simba approaches Scar and strikes a pose.] I'm going to be king of Pride Rock.
Scar:
[Simba bounds away as Scar scowls.] Oh, goodie.
Simba:
[Simba walks to the ledge and overlooks the savanna.] My dad just showed me the whole kingdom. [Simba looks at Scar over his shoulder.] And I'm gonna rule it all! *cackles*
Scar:
[Scar glares at Simba, his back hunched.] Yes. Well, forgive me for not leaping for joy. Bad back, you know. [Scar flops onto his side.]
Simba:
[Simba approaches Scar and jumps up on his mane.] Hey, Uncle Scar. When I'm king, what'll that make you?
Scar:
A monkey's uncle.
Simba:
[Simba tumbles off Scar.] *laughs* You're so weird.
Scar:
[Scar lifts his head to meet Simba's gaze.] You have no idea. [Scar stands up and walks away.] So, your father showed you the whole kingdom, did he?
Simba:
[Simba trails Scar.] Everything.
Scar:
He didn't show you what's beyond that rise at the northern border. [Scar sits.]
Simba:
[Simba sits, ears drooping.] Well, no. He said I can't go there.
Scar:
And he's absolutely right! It's far [Scar leans in dramatically.] too dangerous. Only the bravest lions go there. [Scar looks away.]
Simba:
[Simba stands and puffs out his chest.] Well, I'm brave! [Simba tilts his head questioningly.] What's out there?
Scar:
No, I'm sorry, Simba. [Scar looks away.] I just can't tell you.
Simba:
[Simba moves in front of Scar.] Why not?
Scar:
Simba, Simba, [Simba sits.] I'm only looking out for the well-being of my favorite nephew. [Scar pats Simba's head with a comparatively giant paw.]
Simba:
*snorts* Yeah, right. I'm your only nephew. [Simba peeks out from under Scar's paw.]
Scar:
All the more reason for me to be protective. [Scar lifts a claw like it's his pinky.] An elephant graveyard is no place for a young prince. [Simba stands up excitedly, and Scar slaps a paw to his mouth in mock horror.] Oops!
Simba:
An elephant what? [Simba looks away.] Whoa...
Scar:
[Scar puts a paw to his head, feigning dismay.] Oh, dear, I've said too much. Well, I suppose you'd have found out sooner or later, you being so clever and all. [Simba tries to slink off, but Scar grabs him and pulls him close.] Oh, just do me one favor: promise me you'll never visit that dreadful place.
Simba:
No problem.
Scar:
There's a good lad. [Scar nudges Simba away.] You run along now and have fun. And remember... [Simba pauses and looks back at Scar.] it's our little secret. [Simba runs off, and Scar walks away, smiling deviously.]
[The scene transitions. Lionesses sun themselves on rocks as Simba races by. He stops on a ledge where Sarabi is sleeping. Across from her, Sarafina bathes Nala.]
Simba:
Hey, Nala.
Nala:
Hi, Simba.
Simba:
[Simba whispers with one paw shielding his mouth.] Come on, I just heard about this great place.
Nala:
Simba! I'm kind of in the middle of a bath. [Simba glowers.]
Sarabi:
And it's time for yours. [Simba tries to escape, but Sarabi snatches him up in her jaws, deposits him in her lap, and starts licking him.]
Simba:
[Simba struggles to get away.] Mom! Mom, you're messing up my mane. [Sarabi licks Simba's forehead, giving him a cowlick. She smiles down at him affectionately. Simba jumps out of her lap and smoothes down the cowlick.] Okay, okay. I'm clean. Can we go now?
Nala:
[Nala lies on her back while Sarafina bathes her rump and sides.] So, where are we going? It better not be any place dumb.
Simba:
[Simba approaches.] No. It's really cool.
Sarabi:
So, where is this "really cool" place? [Simba flinches.]
Simba:
Oh. [Simba turns around and smiles brightly.] Uh...around the water hole.
Nala:
The water hole?! What's so great about the water hole? [Simba smiles innocently at his mother before turning on Nala.]
Simba:
[Simba speaks in an aside to Nala.] I'll show you when we get there.
Nala:
Oh. Uh, Mom? [Nala sits up.] Can I go with Simba?
Sarafina:
Hmm. What do you think, Sarabi?
Sarabi:
Well...
Nala and Simba:
[Simba and Nala walk up to Sarabi, grinning exaggeratedly.] Please?
Sarabi:
It's all right with me.
Simba:
[Simba and Nala bound away excitedly.] Yeah!
Nala:
All right!
Sarabi:
As long as Zazu goes with you.
Simba:
[Simba and Nala pull up short in dismay.] No, not Zazu!
[The scene transitions. Simba and Nala follow a dirt trail to the water hole, with Zazu flying overhead.]
Zazu:
Step lively. The sooner we get to the water hole, the sooner we can leave.
Nala:
[whispering] So, where are we really going?
Simba:
[whispering] An elephant graveyard.
Nala:
Wow!
Simba:
[whispering] Shh! Zazu.
Nala:
[whispering] Right. So, how are we gonna ditch the dodo?
Simba:
[whispering] Oh, I know how we can...
Zazu:
[Zazu notices the cubs talking in low voices. He swoops down to join them.] Oh, just look at you two. Little seeds of romance blossoming in the savanna. [Simba and Nala exchange bored looks. Zazu bows.] Your parents will be thrilled, what with your being betrothed and all.
Simba:
[Simba tilts his head.] Be-what?
Zazu:
Betrothed. Intended. Affianced. [Simba and Nala exchange confused looks.]
Nala:
[Nala leans forward.] Meaning?
Zazu:
One day, you two are going to be married! [Zazu grabs his sides like he's holding on to his coat lapels.]
Simba:
[Simba sticks out his tongue.] Yuck!
Nala:
Ewww!
Simba:
[Simba ducks down to Zazu's level. Zazu crosses his wings huffily.] I can't marry her. She's my friend.
Nala:
[Nala ducks down on Zazu's other side.] Yeah, it'd be so weird.
Zazu:
Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but you two turtle doves have no choice. [Zazu walks off, gesturing dramatically. Simba mouths, "blah, blah, blah," behind Zazu's back.] It's a tradition going back generations.
Simba:
Well, when I'm king, that'll be the first thing to go. [Simba winks at Nala.]
Zazu:
Not so long as I'm around.
Simba:
[Simba strides up to Zazu.] Well, in that case, you're fired.
Zazu:
Hmm. Nice try, but only the king can do that. [Zazu pokes Simba's nose.]
Nala:
[Nala strides up to join Simba.] Well, he's the future king.
Simba:
Yeah. So you have to do what I tell you. [Simba thumps Zazu's chest.]
Zazu:
[Zazu puts his wings on his hips.] Not yet, I don't. And with an attitude like that, [Simba gestures flippantly. Simba and Nala walk away.] I'm afraid you're shaping up to be a pretty pathetic king indeed.
Simba:
[Simba looks over his shoulder at Zazu.] Hmph. Not the way I see it. ♪ [Simba pounces at Zazu. The landscape around him takes on a surrealist look, with bright colors and geometric shapes.] I'm gonna be a mighty king, [Simba advances on Zazu, who backs away.] so, enemies, beware! [Simba nudges Zazu with his head, so forcefully that Zazu flips over a log.] ♪
Zazu:
♪ [Zazu's back end is stuck in a hole in the log.] Well, I've never seen a king of beasts [Zazu jumps free.] with quite so little hair. [Zazu plucks out one of Simba's hairs.] ♪
Simba:
♪ I'm gonna be the main event, [Birds fly away from a red-leafed bush as Simba forces his head through, producing the effect that he has a mane.] like no king was before. [Simba climbs up the log, shedding his leaf mane.] I'm brushin' up on lookin' down. [Simba strikes an arrogant pose.] I'm workin' on my roar! [Simba roars into Zazu's face, causing him to fall backward into a mud puddle.] ♪
Zazu:
♪ [Zazu stumbles forward, covered in mud.] Thus far, a rather uninspiring thing. [Zazu dries himself on a nearby red towel. The view changes to reveal that the "towel" is actually an elephant's ear. The elephant slaps Zazu away with its trunk, sending him skipping across a nearby body of water. In the water's reflection is a flock of flamingos.] ♪
Simba:
♪ [The flamingos fly away as Simba and Nala race through the water after Zazu.] Oh, I just can't wait to be king! ♪
Zazu:
[Zazu stumbles into a little brook.] You've rather a long way to go, young master. [Simba and Nala skip into view, each on one side of the brook. Zazu points accusingly into Simba's face.] If you think...
Simba:
♪ [Behind Zazu's back, Nala sticks out her tongue.] No one sayin', 'Do this!' ♪
Zazu:
Now when I said that...
Nala:
♪ [Zazu turns to face Nala. Behind his back, Simba sticks out his tongue and pulls out each cheek.] No one sayin', 'Be there!' ♪
Zazu:
What I meant was...
Simba:
♪ [Zazu turns to face Simba. Behind his back, Nala makes a fish face.] No one sayin', 'Stop that!' ♪
Zazu:
What you don't realize...
Simba and Nala:
♪ [Simba and Nala make faces at Zazu before bounding off.] No one sayin', 'See here!' ♪
Zazu:
Now see here! [An ostrich runs by, nearly trampling Zazu.] *screams*
Simba:
♪ [Two ostriches, one bearing Simba and one bearing Nala, race away into a hilly area.] Free to run around all day! ♪
Zazu:
[Zazu takes to the air.] Well, that's definitely out.
Simba:
♪ [Simba and Nala ride along on the ostriches.] Free to do it all my way! ♪
[Zazu flits through a forest. The silhouettes of Simba and Nala on their ostriches race alongside him.]
Zazu:
♪ [Zazu flies in front of Simba and Nala.] I think it's time that you and I arranged a heart-to-heart. [Zazu hits a green wall, which is revealed to be a rhinoceros's back end.] ♪
Simba:
♪ [Simba and Nala's ostriches approach. They duck their heads so the cubs can look directly at Zazu.] Kings don't need advice from little hornbills for a start. [Simba and Nala's ostriches race away.] ♪
Zazu:
♪ [Zazu falls to the ground. He takes flight and lands on a log.] If this is where the monarchy is headed, count me out! [The view changes to show Zazu's log drifting down a river.] Out of service, out of Africa? I wouldn't hang about! [Zazu's log plummets off a waterfall.] *screams* [Zazu flies to safety with an angry expression.] This child is getting wildly out of wing! ♪
Simba:
♪ [Zebras part to make way for Simba and Nala, who walk between them with a spotlight shining down on them.] Oh, I just can't wait to be king! [Zazu tries to follow the cubs, but the zebras turn their backs on him and raise their tails. Zazu shields his head with a wing.] ♪
[Simba and Nala cavort through a herd of elephants. Zazu searches for them from above before swooping down among the herd.]
Simba:
♪ [Simba stands on a giraffe's head.] Everybody, look left! ♪
Zazu:
[Animals stream past, running over Zazu.] *screams*
Simba:
♪ Everybody look right! [Animals stream past in the opposite direction, running over Zazu again. Simba jumps up on several giraffes' heads like they're stairs.] Everywhere, you look I'm [Simba slides down a giraffe's neck and poses on its back.] standin' in the spotlight! ♪
Zazu:
[Zazu shoves his way between two animals' rears.] Not yet! [The rears crush him between them.]
Chorus:
♪ [Simba whispers to a hippo, who whispers to a giraffe, who whispers to a monkey.] Let every creature go for broke and sing! [Zazu dusts himself off. Monkeys seize him by the neck and pull him into the trees. Crocodiles sing with birds in their teeth.] Let's hear it in the herd and on the wing! [The monkeys toss Zazu to one another. Giraffes catapult Simba and Nala into the air with their heads.] It's gonna be King Simba's finest fling! [The monkeys hold Zazu captive and groom him for bugs.] ♪
Simba:
♪ [The animals form a tower.] Oh, I just can't wait to be king! Oh, I just can't wait to be king! [An ostrich at the very top opens its wings to reveal Simba and Nala on its back.] Oh, I just can't wait... [The animals start losing their balance and toppling over.] to be king! [The animals fall, with Zazu getting crushed beneath a rhinoceros.] ♪
Zazu:
[from under the rhinoceros] I beg your pardon, madam, but...get...off! [The rhinoceros does not budge, merely continues to sit in the empty clearing.] Simba! Nala!
[The scene transitions to the savanna. Simba and Nala race to freedom.]
Simba and Nala:
*laughs*
Simba:
[Simba and Nala pause.] All right! It worked!
Nala:
We lost him.
Simba:
[Simba lifts his chin pridefully.] I am a genius. [Nala starts to walk off, but pauses and looks back in disgust.]
Nala:
Hey, genius, it was my idea.
Simba:
Yeah, but I [Simba gestures to himself with a paw.] pulled it off.
Nala:
With me!
Simba:
Oh, yeah? [Simba pounces on Nala.] Rawr! [Simba and Nala roll on the ground.]
Nala:
[Nala pins Simba on his back.] Ha!
Simba:
*gasps*
Nala:
Pinned ya!
Simba:
Hey, let me up! [Simba shoves Nala off. She starts to walk away, chin raised smugly. Simba smiles deviously, then pounces on her again.] Rawr!
Simba and Nala:
[Simba and Nala roll down a steep embankment.] *laughs*
Nala:
[Nala pins Simba on his back.] Pinned ya again.
[A nearby geyser erupts.]
Simba and Nala:
*gasps*
[As the steam clears, Simba and Nala notice a nearby ridge, over which an elephant skull is barely visible. Simba pads closer, a grin spreading across his face. Together, the cubs climb the ridge to view the skull.]
Simba:
This is it. We made it.
Simba and Nala:
[Simba and Nala jump up on one of the skull's tusks and overlook the Elephant Graveyard. They exchange awed looks.] Whoa!
Nala:
It's really creepy.
Simba:
Yeah. Isn't it great?
Nala:
We could get in big trouble.
Simba:
I know! *chuckles*
Nala:
[Simba and Nala approach the skull.] I wonder if its brains are still in there.
Simba:
[Simba grins deviously.] There's only one way to know. Come on. [Simba walks toward the skull.] Let's go check it out.
Zazu:
[Zazu flits in front of Simba, blocking his path.] Wrong! [Zazu shoos Simba away from the skull.] The only checking out you will do will be to check out of here.
Simba:
[Simba reluctantly walks away.] Awww, man!
Zazu:
[Zazu wrings his wings nervously.] We're way beyond the boundary of the Pride Lands.
Simba:
[Simba ducks down to Zazu's level.] Look! Banana Beak is scared. *snickers*
Zazu:
[Zazu pokes Simba's nose with a feather, as if it's a finger.] It's Mister Banana Beak to you, fuzzy. And right now, we are all in very real danger. [Zazu looks around nervously while Simba strides past him.]
Simba:
Danger? Ha! I walk on the wild side. [Simba pauses in front of the skull, crouching low.] I laugh in the face of danger. [Simba rears back his head dramatically.] Ha, ha, ha, ha!
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
[from inside the skull] *laughs* [Simba's expression turns to horror. He races away from the skull and hides behind Nala and Zazu. Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed emerge from within the elephant skull and prowl toward Simba and Nala, whom Zazu shields with his wings.]
Shenzi:
Well, well, well, Banzai. What have we got here?
Banzai:
Hmm. I don't know, Shenzi. Uh, what do you think, Ed? [Banzai looks back at Ed.]
Ed:
*laughs maniacally*
Banzai:
Yeah, just what I was thinking... A trio of trespassers! [Banzai juts his head accusingly at Zazu, who continues to shield Simba and Nala with his wings.]
Zazu:
[Zazu clasps his wings like they're hands.] And quite by accident, let me assure you. [Simba and Nala start to slink off.] A simple navigational error. [Zazu tries to follow Simba and Nala, but Shenzi steps on his tail, halting him.]
Shenzi:
Whoa, whoa. Wait, wait, wait. I know you. You're Mufasa's little stooge! [Shenzi ducks down to Zazu's level.]
Zazu:
[Zazu pulls his tail out from under Shenzi's paw.] I, madam, am the king's majordomo.
Banzai:
[Banzai and Ed circle Simba and Nala.] And that would make you...
Simba:
The future king!
Shenzi:
[Shenzi joins Banzai and Ed in circling Simba and Nala.] Do you know what we do to kings who step out of their kingdom?
Simba:
Puh! You can't do anything to me.
Zazu:
Uh, technically, they can. [Zazu steeples his wings like they're fingers.] We are on their land.
Simba:
But, Zazu, you told me they're nothing but slobbering, [Zazu desperately signals Simba to stop.] mangy, stupid poachers.
Zazu:
[Zazu nervously clasps his wings like they're hands.] Ix-nay on the upid-stay...
Banzai:
[Banzai juts his head accusingly at Zazu.] Who are you callin' "upid-stay"?!
Zazu:
My, my, my! [Simba, Nala, and Zazu try to run away.] Oh, look at the sun! It's time to go!
Shenzi:
[Shenzi cuts off Simba, Nala, and Zazu.] What's the hurry? We'd love [Shenzi advances on Simba, Nala, and Zazu, causing them to back away. Zazu shields the cubs with his wings.] you to stick around for dinner.
Banzai:
Yeah, we could have whatever's "lion" around! *laughs*
Banzai: (in the background)
Get it? Lion around? *laughs*
Shenzi:
Wait, wait, wait! [Shenzi wags a paw at Banzai.] I got one! I got one! Make mine a "cub" sandwich. Whatcha think? *laughs*
Ed:
[Ed gestures wildly.] *jabbers incoherently*
Shenzi:
What, Ed? What is it?
Banzai:
[Banzai looks in the direction Ed is pointing.] Hey, did we order this dinner to-go?
Shenzi:
No. Why?
Banzai:
'Cause there it goes!
[Simba and Nala race away, with Zazu flying overhead.]
Simba and Nala:
*pants*
Zazu:
[As he flies, Zazu is caught by his tail and yanked backward.] *squawks*
Simba and Nala:
*pants*
[Simba and Nala pause in the middle of the Elephant Graveyard.]
Nala:
Did we lose 'em?
Simba:
I think so. [Simba looks around.] Where's Zazu?
Zazu:
[Zazu struggles as Banzai jerks him around by his wings. Ed and Shenzi watch gleefully.] Aah!
Banzai:
The little majordomo bird hippety-hopped all the way to the birdie boiler. [Banzai shoves Zazu into a geyser.]
Zazu:
Oh, no! Not the birdie boiler! [The geyser explodes, sending Zazu shooting into the air like a rocket.] Aah!
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*laughs*
Simba:
Hey! [Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed stop laughing and look up to where Simba is standing on the ridge above them.] Why don't you pick on somebody your own size?
Shenzi:
Like you?
Simba:
Oops.
Nala:
[Simba and Nala run away. Shenzi nips at Nala's hindquarters.] *screams*
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
[Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed emerge through the steam, blocking Simba and Nala's path.] Boo!
Simba and Nala:
[Simba and Nala skid to a halt.] *gasps*
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*laughs* [Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed bite threateningly at Simba and Nala.]
[Simba and Nala run away, with the hyenas in hot pursuit. The cubs climb an elephant skull, and Banzai leaps after them, taking a snap at their hindquarters.]
Nala:
*shrieks*
Simba and Nala:
[Simba and Nala slide down an elephant spine. They shoot off the end and land on a hill of bones.] *screams* [Simba and Nala begin to climb hastily as the hyenas close in from below.]
Nala:
[from offscreen] Simba!
Simba:
[Simba pauses at the top of the hill and looks back in horror.] *gasps*
Nala:
[Nala slides down the hill toward the hyenas.] *screams*
[Simba races back down the hill and scratches Shenzi's cheek right as she is about to bite Nala.]
Shenzi:
*snarls*
[Simba and Nala race into a high-walled section of the Elephant Graveyard. They clamber up an elephant skeleton and paw desperately at the high wall, only for the rotting skin to break under them and send them tumbling to the ground. They clamber back to their paws, backing away in horror.]
Simba and Nala:
*gasps*
Banzai:
[Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed close in.] Here, kitty, kitty, kitty.
Simba:
[Simba stands protectively in front of a cowering Nala.] *roars weakly*
Shenzi:
That was it? *laughs* Do it again. Come on.
Mufasa:
[Simba roars again, seemingly with a full-grown lion's roar.] *roars*
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
[Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed pause.] Huh?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa swats Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed aside.] *roars* [Mufasa attacks Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed. Simba and Nala watch in terror while Zazu lands next to them. Mufasa pins the hyenas to the ground.]
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*yips*
Shenzi:
Oh, please, please! Uncle! Uncle!
Banzai:
Ow, ow, ow!
Mufasa:
Silence! [Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed flinch.]
Banzai:
Oh, come on, we're gonna shut up right now!
Shenzi:
Calm down. We're really sorry.
Mufasa:
If you ever come near my son again...
Shenzi:
Oh, this is...this is your son?
Banzai:
Oh, yours! [Banzai points at Mufasa, then rubs his head with one paw, as if in mock realization.]
Shenzi:
Did you know that?
Banzai:
No! Me? [Banzai gestures to himself with one paw.] I didn't know. No! Did you?
Shenzi:
No, of course not!
Banzai:
No.
Shenzi and Banzai:
Ed? [Shenzi and Banzai look at Ed.]
Ed:
*nods*
Mufasa:
*roars* [Shenzi and Ed hug one another in fear.]
Banzai:
Heh, heh. Toodles! [Banzai waves at Mufasa.]
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
[Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed flee the scene.] *yips*
[Zazu lands next to Mufasa and nods satisfactorily. Mufasa turns and glares at him, causing him to flinch back. Simba and Nala approach tentatively from behind.]
Simba:
Dad, I...
Mufasa:
[Mufasa looks sternly over one shoulder.] You deliberately disobeyed me.
Simba:
[Simba looks crestfallen.] Dad, I'm...I'm sorry.
Mufasa:
Let's go home. [Mufasa walks off. Zazu flies after him, casting a sad look at Simba and Nala.]
Nala:
[Simba and Nala trail after Mufasa.] I thought you were very brave. [Simba looks away sadly. Overhead, Scar watches the party leave with a furious look on his face.]
[The scene transitions to evening. Mufasa stalks across the savanna, with Simba and Nala trailing behind him and Zazu flying overhead. Nala peers uncertainly at Simba, who keeps his head down. Zazu watches the cubs from overhead.]
Mufasa:
Zazu!
Zazu:
[Zazu flinches and hurriedly lands in front of Mufasa. He folds his wings nervously.] Yes, sire?
Mufasa:
Take Nala home. I've got to teach my son a lesson. [Mufasa glares over one shoulder at Simba. Simba ducks low in the grass, with Nala watching in concern.]
Zazu:
[Zazu flies over to Simba and Nala, and alights in-between them.] Come, Nala. Simba? [Zazu puts his wings on Simba's shoulders.] *sighs* Good luck. [Zazu flies off. Nala follows him, with one final look over her shoulder at Simba.]
Mufasa:
Simba! [Simba flinches and starts walking dejectedly toward Mufasa. As he walks, he accidentally steps into Mufasa's pawprint. He stares down at his tiny paw in the huge indentation. Then he skirts around the pawprint and sits next to Mufasa. He looks up at his father nervously. Mufasa glares into the distance, then looks down at Simba.] Simba, I'm very disappointed in you.
Simba:
[Simba bows his head in shame.] I know.
Mufasa:
You could've been killed. You deliberately disobeyed me. And what's worse, you put Nala in danger!
Simba:
*breathes heavily* I was just trying to be brave like you. [Simba's voice breaks at the end.]
Mufasa:
I'm only brave when I have to be. Simba...being brave doesn't mean you go looking for trouble.
Simba:
But you're not scared of anything.
Mufasa:
[Mufasa looks wistfully into the distance.] I was today.
Simba:
[from offscreen] You were?
Mufasa:
Yes. [Mufasa ducks down to Simba's level. His voice softens.] I thought I might lose you.
Simba:
Oh. I guess even kings get scared, huh? [Simba smiles.]
Mufasa:
[Mufasa nods.] Mm-hmm.
Simba:
[Simba leans in conspiratorially.] But you know what?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa leans in, playing along.] What?
Simba:
I think those hyenas were even scareder.
Mufasa:
*chuckles* [Mufasa grins deviously and lifts one paw.] 'Cause nobody messes with your dad. [Mufasa grabs Simba and gives him a noogie.] Come here, you!
Simba:
Oh, no, no! [Simba struggles against Mufasa.] Agh! Uh! [Simba wriggles free.] Uh. [Simba pounces on Mufasa.] Ah! Come here!
Mufasa:
[Mufasa runs away from Simba, who gives chase.] *laughs*
Simba:
*laughs* [Simba pounces on Mufasa.] Gotcha!
Mufasa and Simba:
[Simba tugs on Mufasa's ear with his teeth.] *laughs*
Simba:
[Simba perches on Mufasa's mane.] *pants* Dad?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa looks up at Simba.] Hmm?
Simba:
We're pals, right?
Mufasa:
*chuckles* Right.
Simba:
And we'll always be together, right?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa sits up, suddenly somber.] Simba...let me tell you something that my father told me. [Mufasa looks up at the stars.] Look at the stars. [Simba looks up at the stars in wonder.] The Great Kings of the Past look down on us from those stars.
Simba:
[Simba glances down at Mufasa.] Really?
Mufasa:
[Mufasa glances over one shoulder at Simba.] Yes. [Mufasa and Simba look up at the stars.] So whenever you feel alone, just remember that those kings will always be there to guide you...and so will I.
[The scene transitions to a geyser-ridden section of the Elephant Graveyard. Banzai and Ed's voices echo up the tall rocky walls.]
Banzai:
Man, that lousy Mufasa. I won't be able to sit for a week.
Ed:
*laughs*
Banzai:
It's not funny, Ed.
Ed:
*laughs hysterically*
Banzai:
Hey, shut up! *growls*
Banzai and Ed:
*yips*
Shenzi:
Will you knock it off?!
Banzai:
Well, he started it!
Shenzi:
Look at you guys! No wonder we're danglin' at the bottom of the food chain.
Banzai:
Man, I hate danglin'.
Shenzi:
Shyeah. You know, if it weren't for those lions, we'd be runnin' the joint.
Banzai:
Yeah. Man, I hate lions.
Shenzi:
So pushy...
Banzai:
And hairy...
Shenzi:
And stinky...
Banzai:
And man, are they...
Banzai and Shenzi:
Ugly! *snickers*
Scar:
Oh, surely we lions are not all that bad.
Banzai:
Oh. Oh, Scar, it's just you.
Shenzi:
We were afraid it was somebody important.
Banzai:
Yeah, you know, like Mufasa.
Shenzi:
Yeah.
Scar:
I see.
Banzai:
Now that's power.
Shenzi:
Tell me about it. I just hear that name, and I shudder.
Banzai:
Mufasa.
Shenzi:
Ooh. Do it again.
Banzai:
Mufasa!
Shenzi:
Ooh!
Banzai:
Mufasa, Mufasa, Mufasa!
Shenzi:
Ooh!
Ed:
*sniggers*
Shenzi:
Ooh, it tingles me.
Scar:
I'm surrounded by idiots.
Banzai:
Now, you, Scar, I mean, you're one of us. I mean, you're our pal.
Scar:
Charmed.
Shenzi:
Oh, I like that. He's not king, but he's still so proper.
Banzai:
Yeah. Hey, hey, did you bring us anything to eat, Scar, old buddy, old pal? Did ya, did ya, did ya?
Scar:
I don't think you really deserve this.
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*slavers*
Scar:
I practically gift-wrapped those cubs for you, and you couldn't even dispose of them.
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*yips*
Shenzi:
Well, you know, it wasn't exactly like they was alone, Scar.
Banzai:
Yeah. What were we supposed to do? *gulps* Kill Mufasa?
Scar:
Precisely.
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
Huh?
Scar:
I know that your powers of retention
Are as wet as a warthog's backside
But thick as you are, pay attention!
My words are a matter of pride
It's clear from your vacant expressions
The lights are not all on upstairs
But we're talking kings and successions
Even you can't be caught unawares!
So prepare for the chance of a lifetime
Be prepared for sensational news
A shining new era
Is tiptoeing nearer
Shenzi:
And where do we feature?
Scar:
Just listen to teacher
I know it sounds sordid
But you'll be rewarded
When at last I am given my dues
And injustice deliciously squared
Be prepared!
Banzai:
Yeah! Be prepared! Yeah-heh! We'll be prepared! Heh! For what?
Scar:
For the death of the king.
Banzai:
Why? Is he sick?
Scar:
No, fool. We're gonna kill him. And Simba, too.
Shenzi:
Great idea! Who needs a king?
Banzai and Shenzi:
No king! No king! La, la, la, la, la, la!
Scar:
Idiots! There will be a king!
Banzai:
Hey, but you said-
Scar:
I will be king! Stick with me, and you'll never go hungry again!
Banzai and Shenzi:
Yay! All right! All right! Long live the king!
Hyenas:
Long live the king! Long live the king!
Hyenas:
It's great that we'll soon be connected
With a king who'll be all-time adored
Scar:
Of course, quid pro quo, you're expected
To take certain duties on board
The future is littered with prizes
And though I'm the main addressee
The point that I must emphasize is
You won't get a sniff without me!
So prepare for the coup of the century
Be prepared for the murkiest scam
Meticulous planning
(We'll have food!)
Tenacity spanning
(Lots of food!)
Decades of denial
(We repeat!)
Is simply why I'll
(Endless meat!)
Be king undisputed
Respected, saluted
And seen for the wonder I am!
Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared
Be prepared!
Hyenas:
Yes, our teeth and ambitions are bared
All:
Be prepared!
*laughs menacingly*
Scar:
Now, you wait here. Your father has a marvelous surprise for you.
Simba:
Ooh, what is it?
Scar:
If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it?
Simba:
If you tell me, I'll still act surprised!
Scar:
Ho, ho, ho! You are such a naughty boy!
Simba:
Come on, Uncle Scar.
Scar:
No, no, no, no, no, no, no. This is just for you and your daddy. You know, a sort of father-son...thing. Well, I'd better go get him.
Simba:
I'll go with you.
Scar:
No! *chuckles* No. Just stay on this rock. You wouldn't want to end up in another mess like you did with the hyenas.
Simba:
You know about that?
Scar:
Simba, everybody knows about that.
Simba:
Really?
Scar:
Oh, yes. Lucky Daddy was there to save you, eh? Ooh, and just between us, you might want to work on that little roar of yours. Hmm?
Simba:
Oh. Okay. Hey, Uncle Scar, will I like the surprise?
Scar:
Simba, it's to die for.
Banzai:
*stomach growls*
Shenzi:
Shut up.
Banzai:
I can't help it. I'm so hungry. I gotta have a wildebeest.
Shenzi:
Stay put.
Banzai:
Well, can't I just pick off one of the little sick ones?
Shenzi:
No! We wait for the signal from Scar. There he is. Let's go.
Simba:
"Little roar." Puh! *growls* *growls again* *roars* *gasps*
Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed:
*yips*
Zazu:
Oh, look, sire. The herd is on the move.
Mufasa:
Odd.
Scar:
Mufasa, quick. Stampede, in the gorge. Simba's down there.
Mufasa:
Simba?
Simba:
*gasps* *grunts* Zazu, help me!
Zazu:
Your father is on the way! Hold on!
Simba:
Hurry!
Zazu:
There! There! On that tree!
Mufasa:
Hold on, Simba!
Simba:
*yells* *grunts*
Zazu:
Oh, Scar, this is awful! What'll we do? What'll we do?! Ha! I'll go back for help. That's what I'll do. I'll go back for he– Oof!
Mufasa:
*grunts*
Simba:
*screams*
Mufasa:
*grunts*
Simba:
*gasps*
Mufasa:
*roars*
Simba:
*grunts*
Mufasa:
*roars*
Simba:
Dad!
Mufasa:
*roars* Scar! Brother, help me! *roars*
Scar:
Long live the king.
Mufasa:
*screams*
Simba:
No!
Simba:
Dad?
Simba:
Dad? ...Dad, come on. You gotta get up. Dad. We gotta go home. HEEEEELP! Somebody! Anybody... help.