From the dulcet introductory Disney theme and the first hypnotic strains of the nostalgic score, it is evident that The Jungle Book’s audience is in safe hands. This film is an exercise in judgement and charm, offering the perfect amount of homage, animal talk and our favourite tunes. Beloved characters are brought to life by glorious voice acting and charming newcomer Neel Sethi.

The only thing that could surmount such palpable reverence is the innovation on display. The Jungle Book is its own film, offering unique twists and turns, a more spiritual story than the original, and unforgettable animation.

Like Mowgli, The Jungle Book stands on its own two feet. Director Jon Favreau expertly navigates the line between reverence and reinvention, making this the best Disney live-action adaptation yet.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Neel Sethi, Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong’o, Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken. 

DIRECTOR: Jon Favreau

WRITER: Justin Marks (based on the book by Rudyard Kipling)

SYNOPSIS: Following a threat from Shere Khan the tiger (Idris Elba), man-cub Mowgli (Neel Sethi) journeys to the man village with the help of Bagheera the panther (Ben Kingsley) and Baloo the bear (Bill Murray). On his journey, Mowgli confronts friend, foe and self-discovery.