The Jungle Book (1994)

I will not participate in the internet debate whether this film is better or worse than the animated "The Jungle Book", because this is not an adaptation of a cartoon from 1967, but a completely different story, based on the same characters. While the cartoon follows the adventures of the boy Mowgli, surrounded by animals who think and speak as human beings, the feature film shows the adult Mowgli, and the animals are real animals, without attributing human traits, and Mowgli communicates with them in their "languages". I'm a bit surprised by the amount and the explicitity of violence, injury and death, since this is a Disney movie, which means it is primarily intended for children. Camera that zooms a man drowning and finally dying in quicksand isn't exactly a sight suitable for children. Jason Scott Lee is visually perfect choice and has played a great role. Of the more famous, there are Cersei Lannister and John Cleese, but the animals carry main role and the charm of this film. About 200 trained wild animals were used. For tiger scenes, only the most indispensable staff remained on the set and the blue screen was used, but many scenes with wildlife are completely authentic, which leaves a stronger impression than the best CGI. Although it tells another story, the film retains Kipling's spirit and respects the "law of the jungle": You can kill only to eat or to avoid being eaten.8/10Mowgli: "Then do you eat him?" Boone: " No, of course not." M: "Does he want to eat you?" B: "Why, no." M: "Then why kill him?" B: "Because he is your enemy." M: "What is enemy?" B: "Someone you hate." M: "What is hate?"

I am shocked at the low rating this movie has. Sure, the animated version will forever be my favorite. But, I felt that Disney did a fine job bringing an animated movie and novel to life. Jason Scott Lee stars as Mowgli and does Rudyard Kipling proud by making the audience believe he can talk to animals. The animals that were featured in this version were great, from the wolf to the great Tiger. The story starts out with a hunting expedition in India led by Mowgli's father. As a boy, Mowgli meets and takes a liking to the daughter of the British colonel who financed the trip (played by the great Sam Neill). While they camp at night, a powerful and fierce tiger attacks the camp, killing several people including Mowgli's father. Mowgli ends up being separated from the camp and is presumed dead by everyone. In the jungle, he meats a baby bear and wolf and together they grow up. Eventually, Mowgli comes across his long lost love but even though he is accepted to society, he feels like an alien. If that's not enough, he must battle a corrupt army captain who has his sights on Mowgli's love. Ultimately, this is a film that is worthy to have The Jungle Book as it title, with great acting and beautiful scenery. Truly a film that everyone can enjoy.

Made for kids, but this movie is shot lavishly so adults could enjoy too.Mowgli gets separated from his surrogate family. He finds himself reared by animals of the forest until one day he is reunited with his surrogate family and restarts his life in civilization. He's the founder of the lost city. Now the greedy people wants Mowgli to show them the way to the city.The production of this movie is done very well, and all the details comes out right. Jason Scott Lee portrays Mowgli who's a Tarzan like character, only it happens in India. He befriends many animals who helps him in need.It's a good remake of a classic, and a good alternative to the one starring Zabu.

This was pretty solid adventure story with colorful backgrounds of a the country of India and jungle scenery. Jason Scott Lee as "Mowgli" is interesting to watch in the lead. Lee is an intriguing actor. He has an Asian background, but has played an Eskimo, here in Indian and other nationalities in other films. He is one of the more diverse actors I've ever seen, yet he isn't well-known.Cary Elwes is usually effective as a villain. He has the acting talent that makes him easy to despise! The animals are fun, too, from Mowgli's friends in the jungle to the monkeys and giant snake guarding the lost caves with the treasure. Nicely filmed and a good adventure story for everyone.