The New Adventures of Kimba the White Lion

—by Charles McCarter

KIMBA THE WHITE LION exists in several incarnations in its native Japan, and now it does in the United States as well. The series that aired on American television some twenty-five years ago can be found on video, and the 1996 theatrical movie has been licensed by Media Blasters for American release. However, somewhere along the line, Pioneer managed to sneak in and get the late 1980's remake of the original series and is releasing it under the banner of "Pioneer Family Entertainment."
The story on this first tape deals with the legend of the white lion, Panja, who happens to be Kimba's father. Some poachers are interested in capturing the white lion, as it will be a great prize. The natives warn that he is the protector of the jungle and will not be so easily captured, but to no avail. The poachers kidnap his wife, and Panja goes to rescue her. In the ensuing chaos, he is mortally wounded.
Kimba is born on a steamship headed out of Africa, but his mother helps him escape, telling him he must return to his home to take up where his father left off. This is truly the beginning of Kimba's journey as he must find his way home by negotiating through a series of trials, tricks, and traps that the world has in store for an unsuspecting and nave young lion. Of course, on the way, there will be both enemies and allies, and determining which is which is not always an easy task.
While the technical quality of the animation has improved, this production retains the classic Tezuka look that might be described as "cartoony." However, since we are dealing with talking lions and other wildlife, the look fits the show, and it also reflects the youthful innocence with which Kimba views the world.
Since it is based on the original series, the plot in this version of Kimba is essentially no different than it was before. As a result, the story is still a simple one, and certainly not riveting. However, Tezuka's gift was to take these simple stories and make them something more; this video tries to follow in that vein, remaining true to the story but trying not to appear too dated or nostalgic.
Yet it is because of the simplicity and the nostalgia that this show succeeds in reaching a multigenerational audience. Those who enjoy the other works of Tezuka Osamu will enjoy this show, and people who grew up watching the first USA version of Kimba will likely find this a worthy retelling of the tale. Children, too, will probably find this title very appealing for its bright colors, cute characters, and exciting story. One caveat, however: anime fans who think that anime only began in the late 1980's will probably not find much to roar about.

Released by Pioneer
English dialogue
65 minutes
PIKB-001D
$19.95
Available Now
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