Movies with king characters often depict stories coming from literary sources. Some films are loosely based on them, while others work as direct interpretations or screen adaptations of their original sources. For the films “The Sword in the Stone,” “The Lion King,” and “Shrek the Third,” these classic animation pieces are mainly inspired by the stories of King Arthur and “Hamlet.”
“The Sword in the Stone” (1963)
The Disney movie “The Sword in the Stone” may not be as popular and as largely marketed as Disney’s princesses, but this animated fantasy comedy is actually a brilliant piece about King Arthur. The film explores the story of the young boy who aspires to become a knight’s squire. He meets the powerful but amnesiac wizard Merlin who becomes his teacher. His training becomes an essential part of the life of the boy who is destined to become King Arthur.
This children’s movie is based on the novel of the same title, which was first published in 1938 then later republished in 1958 as part of T.H. White’s tetralogy titled “The Once and Future King.” It is Disney’s 18th animated feature and is a part of the “English Cycle” of Disney-animated films. It is also the last feature released before the passing of Walt Disney.
“The Lion King” (1994)
“The Lion King” bears a striking resemblance with Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Yet this musical film shines on its own for its emotionally stirring and richly animated presentation. For both this critically acclaimed Disney offering and the Shakespeare masterpiece, the basic story features a thriving kingdom’s loss of a great king, the king’s evil brother assuming the throne, and the king’s son later on claiming back his father’s kingdom.
Often listed as one of the best theatrically released animated films ever made, “The Lion King” is also one of the most successful franchises of all time — as shown by its award-winning home video releases; viable merchandise items; and various adaptations in musical theater, video games, and other platforms. It also became the highest-grossing animated film of all time until “Finding Nemo” landed on the top spot. To date, it has the record of being the sixth highest grossing animated film and the highest grossing traditionally animated film in Hollywood.
“Shrek the Third” (2007)
“Shrek the Third,” the third installment in the “Shrek” franchise, features the ogre Shrek looking for the new heir to the kingdom of Far, Far Away. He and his wife Fiona, the immediate successors to the throne, believe a distant relative is worthy to become the new king. He decides to find the legitimate heir, named Artie — a character reference to King Arthur — from a distant kingdom. During the long journey to Far, Far Away, Artie also meets his retired wizard teacher Merlin. Meanwhile, Fiona rallies with a band of royal girlfriends to fight against the coup d’etat of the ambitious Prince Charming.
This animated movie maintains the pop culture references, fart and poop jokes, and musical presentations the franchise is known for. The vibrant color palette and zestfully conceived backdrops allow this fanciful fable to entertain its audience. Its throwback to countless fairy tales and the legend of King Arthur are interpreted through bits and pieces of comedic elements.
Heading to the movies? Get an instant mobile coupon to use at select theaters for free popcorn!