Many individuals are captivated by lions, often referred to as the kings of the jungle. They are known for their strong defense of their family group, prompting countless people to regard them as some of the most impressive creatures on Earth. Lions command respect and admiration due to their power and courage. Various filmmakers have made movies featuring these beasts to highlight both their positive attributes and more challenging aspects.
Certain individuals view films as a way to fill their time, whereas others find they gain knowledge from them. Numerous television serials, documentary features, animated works, and cinematic productions featuring lions have drawn inspiration from these regal beasts. The compilation of movies starring lions takes into account factors like IMDB scores, film prevalence, and the significance of the lion within each story. It’s worth noting that this roster might reflect varying perspectives due to individual preferences.
Summary of Films Featuring Lions
| Ranking | Movie title | Year |
| 1 | The Lion King | 1994 |
| 2 | The Last Lions | 2011 |
| 3 | African Cats | 2011 |
| 4 | Secondhand Lions | 2003 |
| 5 | Born Free | 1996 |
| 6 | Madagascar | 2005 |
| 7 | Zootopia | 2016 |
| 8 | Savage Harvest | 1981 |
| 9 | The Wizard Of Oz | 1939 |
| 10 | Beast | 2022 |
| 11 | Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe | 2012 |
| 12 | The Wild | 2006 |
| 13 | The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar | 2015 |
| 14 | Mia and the White Lion | 2018 |
| 15 | The Last Lioness | 2009 |
| 16 | Roar | 1981 |
| 17 | Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa | 2008 |
| 18 | White Lion | 2010 |
| 19 | To Walk With Lions | 1999 |
| 20 | Jungle Emperor Leo | 1997 |
| 21 | The Ghost and the Shadows | 1996 |
| 22 | The Lion Cub from Harrods | 2009 |
| 23 | Relentless Enemies | 2006 |
| 24 | The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe | 1988 |
| 25 | The Wolf and the Lion | 2021 |
Top 25 Films Featuring Lions List
Certainly! There are plenty of excellent movies featuring lions across various genres including drama, documentary, and even horror. Below is a selection of some top lion-themed films you might want to watch. Here’s a list of the finest movies starring lions:
1. The Lion King (1994)
- IMDb rating: 8.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Directors: Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
- Writers: Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton
The Lion King It stands as one of the greatest animated lion films ever produced. This Disney production narrates the tale of a young cub called Simba. His father, Mufasa, meets his end at the hands of Scar, who harbors ambitions of seizing power for himself. Consequently, Simba must flee from Pride Lands to ensure his survival. After many years, he comes back to reclaim his rightful place and seek justice for his father’s demise. The Lion King is a must-watch.
2. The Last Lions (2011)
- IMDb rating: 8.2/10
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Director: Dereck Joubert
- Writer: Dereck Joubert
If you're searching for films titled after lions, think about watching The Last Lions The movie features a mother lion called Ma Di Tau, who faces challenges as she tries to safeguard her three cubs following an assault by another pride. Recognizing that defeating this opposing clan would result in the demise of her young ones, she opts to guide them towards Duba Island instead. This journey highlights the lion’s courage.
3. African Cats (2011)
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Directors: Keith Scholey and Alastair Fothergill
- Writers: Keith Scholey, John Truby, and Owen Newman
African Cats This movie stands out among those featuring lions and was shot more than ten years ago within the boundaries of Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. It presents an adorable young lioness known as Mara, along with a swift cheetah called Sita, and Fang, who leads their pride. African Cats The three lions have to go above and beyond to safeguard their group from a vicious opposing lion.
4. Secondhand Lions (2003)
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Director: Tim McCanlies
- Writer: Tim McCanlies
Secondhand Lions It's a family-oriented, comedic, and emotionally charged movie. The story revolves around Walter Caldwell, a 14-year-old boy, and a lioness called Jasmine. When his mother, Mae, decides to send him away, he ends up with his uncles, Hub and Garth. Secondhand Lions , Walter and Jasmine share an impressive chemistry.
5. Born Free (1966)
- IMDb rating: 7.2/10
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Directors: James Hill and Tom McGowan
- Writers: Joy Adamson and Coleman Lester
Born Free Is grounded in a non-fiction work titled "Born Free" by Joy Adamson. Upon its release, it became one of the highest-grossing films in British cinemas. The narrative follows a powerful lion named Elsa, whom George successfully domesticated. However, Elsa causes quite an uproar, leading George’s superiors to return her to the wilderness. A year passes, and much to George's joy, he discovers that Elsa recognizes him despite being back in the wild. Born Free will leave you wowed.
6. Madagascar (2005)
- IMDb rating: 6.9/10
- Runtime: 1h 26m
- Directors: Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath
- Writers: Mark Burton, Billy Frolick, and Eric Darnell
Madagascar is one of the top movies featuring lions available on Netflix. Madagascar , escaped penguins inadvertently help four pampered animals break free from their enclosures at the New York Zoo. Once outside, these adventurers end up in Madagascar where they must learn how to survive in the wilderness. Madagascar Is a must-see film in 2024.
7. Zootopia (2016)
- IMDb rating: 8.0/10
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Directors: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush
- Writers: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush
Even though Zootopia It isn’t focused on being a lion-centric film; instead, it’s part of a collection featuring animated movies with lions as characters. The narrative centers on Judy, a new police officer working for the Zootopia Police Department (ZPD), and her quest to uncover a sinister conspiracy. Among the cast is Mayor Lionheart, a regal yet arrogant feline serving as the mayor of Zootopia.
8. Savage Harvest (1981)
- IMDb rating: 5.7/10
- Runtime: 1h 27m
- Director: Robert L. Collins
- Writers: Ralph Helfer, Ken Noyle, and Robert Blees
In Savage Harvest, A family in Africa finds themselves under assault from a group of hungry lions. The creatures are pushed to the brink due to the severe drought conditions. Despite enduring numerous attacks, several members of the family tragically fall prey to the lions.
9. The Wizard Of Oz (1939)
- IMDb rating: 8.1/10
- Runtime: 1h 42m
- Directors: Victor Fleming along with King Vidor
- Writers: Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson, and Edgar Allan Woolf
Most often, lions are portrayed as strong and ferocious, but The Wizard of Oz unveils a timid side. A young girl named Dorothy Gale and her dog, Toto, get transported to the enchanting realm of Oz when a twister strikes their house in Kansas. Alongside three newfound friends, they set off on an adventure to meet the wizard, the sole individual capable of aiding them in finding their way back home.
10. Beast (2022)
- IMDb rating: 5.6/10
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Director: Baltasar Kormákur
- Writers: Jaime Primak Sullivan along with Ryan Engle
Beast One of the films depicting lions attacking humans, this movie follows a recently widowed father and his two adolescent daughters as they travel to a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa. Their purpose is to strengthen their family ties but end up confronting a vicious lion. Beast seeks to communicate the anti-poaching message through an exciting blend of action, adventure, and dramatic events.
11. Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe (2012)
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Directors: Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, and Conrad Vernon
- Writers: Eric Darnell, Noah Baumbach, and Mark Burton
Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe It is part of the roster of lion-themed films in Hollywood. This movie holds the distinction as the third installment in the widely praised series. Madagascar The movie series follows Marty, Melman, Alex, and Gloria as they undertake a challenging journey back to Central Park Zoo after inadvertently interrupting a celebration. This attracts the notice of animal control officers. Be sure to catch it. Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe soon.
12. The Wild (2006)
- IMDb rating: 5.2/10
- Runtime: 1h 22m
- Director: Steve 'Spaz' Williams
- Writers: Mark Gibson, Ed Decter, and John J. Strauss
The Wild Follows the tale of Ryan, a young lion mistakenly sent from the New York Zoo to Africa. As his family frets back home, Ryan looks forward to exploring the wilderness, having heard stories about how his dad, Samson, thrived there before. To save him, Samson and his companions must overcome their disagreements and embark on a journey across continents to reach Ryan. The Wild The herd of animals faces immense peril.
13. The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar (2015)
- IMDb rating: 5.6/10
- Runtime: 44m
- Director: Howy Parkins
- Writer: Ford Riley
The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar It’s a fantastic lion-themed movie perfect for marathon viewing. The animated film, brimming with adventure and humor, takes place in Africa's savannah. It revolves around Kion as he gathers all the members of the Lion Guard for their duty to safeguard and monitor the Pride Lands during their various missions. The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar The varied group of young creatures must come together to harness and utilize their distinct abilities.
14. Mia and The White Lion (2018)
- IMDb rating: 6.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Director: Gilles de Maistre
- Writers: Prune de Maistre, William Davies, and Gilles de Maistre
If you're seeking an adventurous tale filled with drama and family-oriented scenes featuring lions, Mia and the Snow Leopard Should be your top choice. This story revolves around an 11-year-old girl named Mia, who moves to South Africa with her parents to oversee a farm. Mia forms a strong connection with Charlie, a young white lion cub that was born at her family’s house.
15. The Last Lioness (2009)
- IMDb rating: 8.6/10
- Runtime: 50m
- Director: Bronwyn Watkins
- Writer: Bronwyn Watkins
The Last Lioness Is a TV film designed to acquaint audiences with the challenges faced by lions as a species. It tracks the story of Lady Liuwa, an independent lioness residing on the Liuwa Plain in Zambia. Left without a pride to assist her in enduring the dangers of the plains and poachers, she must take every measure possible for self-preservation. Can The Last Lioness make it through?
16. Roar (1981)
- IMDb rating: 6.1/10
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Director: Noel Marshall
- Writers: Noel Marshall and Ted Cassidy
One of the finest lion attack films is Roar The movie is regarded as the most perilous production due to the involvement of numerous tigers and lions throughout the filming. Consequently, several animal assaults occurred on set. The family featured in the film encounters these hazardous beasts.
17. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)
- IMDb rating: 6.6/10
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Directors: Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath
- Writers: Etan Cohen, Eric Darnell, and Tom McGrath
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa the follow-up to the film from 2005 Madagascar . The animals from the New York Zoo—Marty the Zebra, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippopotamus, and Melman the Giraffe—are still stuck in Madagascar. Determined to return home, they construct an airplane to fly back to New York. However, when trying to depart, the local wildlife causes issues for them. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa wreck in an uninhabited area of Africa.
18. White Lion (2010)
- IMDb rating: 6.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Director: Michael Swan
- Writers: Ivan Milborrow, Michael Swan, and Janet van Eeden
In White Lion, A young African boy called Gisani thwarts an ivory poacher intent on taking down a revered white lion named Letsatsi. Cast out from his group, Letsatsi must fend for himself alone. Even though marginalized due to his pigmentation, Gisani spares no effort to protect the lion’s life against these unlawful hunters.
19. To Walk With Lions (1999)
- IMDb rating: 6.7/10
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Director: Carl Schultz
- Writers: Keith Ross Leckie, George Adamson, and Tony Fitzjohn
To Walk with Lions Highlights the challenges faced by the king of the jungle. The movie draws inspiration from the life of George Adamson, a naturalist. In addition to the film, George’s tale also served as the basis for a book entitled Born Free. The movie tracks George and his helper as they manage a lion sanctuary. To Walk with Lions The pair help lions transition back into the wild from various zoos without causing distress.
20. Jungle Emperor Leo (1997)
- IMDb rating: 6.6/10
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Director: Yoshio Takeuchi
- Writers: Osamu Tezuka and Yoshio Takeuchi
In Jungle Emperor Leo, The expedition of ambitious miners seeking valuable gems for personal profit is examined. As they persistently chase after wealth, they inadvertently venture into the domain of a majestic white lion named Leo. Upon the humans' appearance, Leo, along with his clan and allies, perceives an imminent threat.
21. The Ghost and the darkness (1996)
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10
- Runtime: 1h 50m
- Director: Stephen Hopkins
- Writer: William Goldman
In The Phantom and the Lions A bridge engineer along with an seasoned veteran hunter embark on a quest to track down two lions that have begun preying on local construction workers. Interestingly, just one scene employed a mechanical lion for shooting, whereas all the remaining scenes featured five fully grown wild male African lions.
22. The Lion Cub from Harrods (2009)
- IMDb rating: 8.1/10
- Runtime: 45m
- Directors: Suemay Oram and Jackie Osei-Tutu
- Stars: Barbara Flynn, George Adamson, and Anthony Bourke-Kington
In The Lion Cub from Harrods In the late 1960s, a young lion cub called Christian was bought from a London department store. Three years afterward, he was successfully set free into the African wilderness. The movie includes authentic archival video and photos capturing Christian’s journey through his time in London and Kenya.
23. Relentless Enemies (2006)
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Directors: Beverly Joubert and Dereck Joubert
- Writer: Dereck Joubert
In Relentless Enemies In the Okavango Delta, a group of lions finds themselves with a herd of buffaloes on an isolated island. This compelling documentary, voiced by Jeremy Irons, captures the intense scenario where the lion pride pursues these particularly strong buffaloes through challenging landscapes within the delta.
24. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1988)
- IMDb rating: 7.2/10
- Runtime: 29m
In The Chronicles of Narnia : The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , four children journey to the enchanting realm of Narnia, where they have to confront a malevolent queen under the guidance of the noble lion, Aslan.
25. The Wolf and the Lion (2021)
- IMDb rating: 6.2/10
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Director: Gilles de Maistre
- Writers: Prune de Maistre, Gilles de Maistre, and Richard Sadler
In The Wolf and the Lion In the midst of the Canadian wilds, a young girl rescues a wolf pup and an abandoned lion cub. This bond transforms their destinies irrevocably.
Which movies feature a lion as one of the characters?
Take a look at the top films featuring lions listed above.
Which film features an actual lion?
Roar In 1981, a film utilized actual lions, which led to several animal attacks. This movie ranks among the riskiest productions ever created.
Which film features many lions?
Roar Is a movie that includes numerous lions. The film came out in 1981.
Which Disney film features a lion?
The Lion King And its follow-ups are Disney creations starring lions.
Despite being enjoyable due to their lion themes, these movies carry significant messages. While some aim at encouraging people to preserve nature, others focus on spreading awareness about combating poaching. Consequently, they serve as an excellent option for viewers of all ages.
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