While Disney Known for its iconic characters and plots, it also has its fair share of forgotten sequels. Before streaming was commonplace, Disney released many direct-to-DVD sequels to their most popular films. Many found the stories unnecessaryOften overcomplicating and negating the stellar reputation of the original classics. Even Walt Disney did not support sequels, favoring the creation of new content.
But now, some consider Disney 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 collections have become synonymous with the company. however, Unlike in the past, the sequels often have a wide theatrical releaseUnlike the bounty of oft-forgotten direct-to-DVD sequels. With over 20 release films for home entertainment, it was difficult to stand out, but two very similar sequels were able to honor their originals appropriately.
The Lion King 2 and The Little Mermaid 2 tell the same story about legacy
The sequels now see the original main characters as the authority figures
Both The Lion King 2 And The Little Mermaid 2 revolves around the former main characters, Simba and Ariel, who grew up and had their own child, respectively Kiara and Melody. Both children then take on the role of the reckless and rebellious main characterWho fights against their parents, just like Simba and Ariel once did. The films were released two years apart, but essentially have 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 guide their children.
| Film | Year |
|---|---|
| Little Mermaid | 1989 |
| lion king | 1994 |
| Lion King II: Simba’s Pride | 1998 |
| Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea | 2000 |
| Lion King 1 1/2 | 2004 |
| The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Origin | 2008 |
Despite Ariel and Simba’s original protests against their overbearing parents, they become strict parents in their sequels. After growing up and having their own children, they realize that rules are essential to maintain order. They lose their rebellious nature between the first and second films. This evolution is an interesting choice, as Ariel and Simba are both known for their stubbornness and reckless behavior, 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 aren’t known for innovative stories
They are often rushed to capitalize on the success of the originals
Disney produced many straight-to-DVD sequels, especially in the 1990s and early 2000s. Many are trying to capitalize on the success of the original films And are quick to try to create a new storyline for the beloved characters. The sequels often reused the iconic characters, sometimes with the same voice actor, trying to develop them further and keep 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 the themes of 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 space. Because of the rushed production and commitment 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 the themes of 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 were dismissed and often disliked, Simba’s Pride And Back to the sea are appropriate additions to the beloved source material. Although none have particularly stellar reviews, They were relatively well-receivedEspecially compared to Disney’s other direct-to-DVD sequels. This is both because of the topics they deal with, which are deeper than the change of the main characters in the role level, and also because of the connection to the original films.
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Inspired by Romeo and Juliet, Simba’s Pride Addresses themes of prejudice, forgiveness and unity that span generational differences. Return to the sea Focuses on adventure, family and identity, enriching the already fantastic world of the original story. They also maintain a high standard of animation and musicClosely follow, although not equal, the format and essence of their predecessors. Both franchises are going strong, each with a remake in the last five years.
Both The Lion King 2 And The Little Mermaid 2 are available to stream on Disney+.
Despite the stigma of direct-to-DVD sequels, both films stood out in a crowd of often-forgotten Disney films. Simba’s Pride is even considered one of the best Disney sequels, Received praise for its narrative and emotional balance. The original movie, The Lion KingOnce held the title of the highest-grossing animated film of all time, giving any sequels much to live up to. Back to the sea Also successfully filled a niche for fans of The Little MermaidContributing to the franchise’s ongoing legacy. While not all Disney Sequels have succeeded, the two films are able to stand out despite strangely similar plots.