Many individuals are captivated by lions, often referred to as the kings of the jungle. These creatures fiercely safeguard their group, leading countless people to regard them as some of the most impressive beasts on Earth. A lion’s power and courage instill both awe and respect among humans. Various filmmakers have created motion pictures featuring lions to depict the full spectrum of this creature's nature—from admirable traits to less favorable ones.

Certain individuals watch films merely to fill up their time, whereas some gain knowledge from them. Numerous television shows, documentaries, animated features, and movies featuring lions have drawn inspiration from these regal animals. The compilation of lion-centric films takes into account IMDb scores, viewer interest, and the significance of lions within each film’s narrative. It's important to bear in mind that this list might be somewhat biased due to varying individual perspectives.

Summary of Films Featuring Lions

Ranking	Movie title	Year
1	The Lion King	1994
2	The Last Lions	2011
3	African Cats	2011
4	Secondhand Lions	2003
5	Born Free	1996
6	Madagascar	2005
7	Zootopia	2016
8	Savage Harvest	1981
9	The Wizard Of Oz	1939
10	Beast	2022
11	Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe	2012
12	The Wild	2006
13	The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar	2015
14	Mia and the Snow Tiger	2018
15	The Last Lioness	2009
16	Roar	1981
17	Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa	2008
18	White Lion	2010
19	To Walk With Lions	1999
20	Jungle Emperor Leo	1997
21	The Ghost and the darkness	1996
22	The Lion Cub from Harrods	2009
23	Relentless Enemies	2006
24	The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe	1988
25	The Wolf and the Lion	2021

Top 25 movies featuring lions

Certainly! There are plenty of excellent films featuring lions across various genres including drama, documentary, and even horror. Below is a selection of some top lion-themed movies you might want to watch.
Here’s your list:
1. The Lion King
2. Pride Rock Uprising
3. Ghosts of Africa
4. Roar of the Sahara
5. Lions Untamed
6. Kingdom of the Sun
7. Majesty's Realm
8. Chronicles of Simba
9. African Predators
10. Savage Kings
Enjoy exploring these captivating stories about majestic creatures.

1. The Lion King (1994)

• IMDb rating: 8.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 28m
• Directors: Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
• Writers: Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton

The Lion King This beloved Disney production ranks among the greatest animated lion films ever made. The movie follows the journey of a young cub called Simba. His father, King Mufasa, meets an untimely end at the hands of Scar, who covets the crown for himself. Consequently, Simba flees from Pride Lands to ensure his safety. After many years have passed, Simba comes back to reclaim his rightful place in Pride Lands and seek justice for his late father’s demise. The Lion King is a must-watch.

2. The Last Lions (2011)

• IMDb rating: 8.2/10
• Runtime: 1h 28m
• Director: Dereck Joubert
• Writer: Dereck Joubert

If you're searching for films titled after lions, think about watching The Last Lions The movie features a mother lion called Ma Di Tau, who faces challenges as she tries to safeguard her three cubs following an assault by another pride. Recognizing that defeating the opposing lions would result in her offspring’s demise, she decides to guide them towards Duba Island instead. This highlights the lioness's courage.

3. African Cats (2011)

• IMDb rating: 7.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 29m
• Directors: Keith Scholey and Alastair Fothergill
• Writers: Keith Scholey, John TrUBY, and Owen Newman

African Cats One of the greatest films featuring lions, this movie was shot more than ten years ago within the boundaries of Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. It presents an adorable young lioness known as Mara, alongside a graceful cheetah called Sita and Fang, who leads the pride. African Cats , the group has to take every measure to safeguard their community from a vicious opposing lion.

4. Secondhand Lions (2003)

• IMDb rating: 7.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 49m
• Director: Tim McCanlies
• Writer: Tim McCanlies

Secondhand Lions It's a family-oriented, comedic, and emotionally charged movie. The story revolves around Walter Caldwell, a 14-year-old boy, and a lioness called Jasmine. When his mother, Mae, decides to send him off, he ends up staying with his uncles, Hub and Garth. Secondhand Lions , Walter and Jasmine share an impressive chemistry.

5. Born Free (1966)

• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Runtime: 1h 35m
• Directors: James Hill and Tom McGowan
• Writers: Joy Adamson and Lester Cole

Born Free Is grounded in a non-fiction work bearing the same title by Joy Adamson. Upon its release, it became one of the highest-grossing films in British theaters. The narrative revolves around a powerful lion named Elsa, whom George successfully trained. Due to causing disturbances, George’s superiors decide to return Elsa to the wilderness. However, a year later, George finds joy when he discovers that Elsa still recognizes him despite being back in the wild. Born Free will leave you wowed.

6. Madagascar (2005)

• IMDb rating: 6.9/10
• Runtime: 1h 26m
• Directors: Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath
• Writers: Mark Burton, Billy Frolick, and Eric Darnell

Madagascar is one of the top movies featuring lions available on Netflix. Madagascar , escaped penguins inadvertently help four pampered animals break free from their enclosure at the New York Central Zoo. Once they boldly flee the zoo, they end up marooned in Madagascar. There, they have to discover what it truly means to live as wild creatures. Madagascar Is a must-see film in 2024.

7. Zootopia (2016)

• IMDb rating: 8.0/10
• Runtime: 1h 48m
• Directors: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush
• Writers: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush

Even though Zootopia This film does not focus specifically on lions; instead, it appears among a collection of animated movies featuring these animals. The narrative centers on Judy Hopps, a new police officer working for the Zootopia Police Department (ZPD), as she sets out to uncover a sinister conspiracy. One key character includes Mayor Lionheart, portrayed as both regal and somewhat haughty, serving as the mayor of Zootopia.

8. Savage Harvest (1981)

• IMDb rating: 5.7/10
• Runtime: 1h 27m
• Director: Robert L. Collins
• Writers: Ralph Helfer, Ken Noyle, and Robert Blees

In Savage Harvest, A family in Africa finds itself under assault from a group of hungry lions. The creatures are pushed to extremity due to the severe drought. Despite enduring numerous assaults, several members of the family fall prey to these predators.

9. The Wizard Of Oz (1939)

• IMDb rating: 8.1/10
• Runtime: 1h 42m
• Directors: Victor Fleming and King Vidor
• Writers: Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson, and Edgar Allan Woolf

In most cases, lions are depicted as tough and fierce, but The Wizard of Oz unveils a timid version. A young girl named Dorothy Gale and her dog, Toto, get transported to the enchanting realm of Oz when a tornado strikes their house in Kansas. Alongside three newfound friends, they set off on an adventure to meet the wizard, the sole individual capable of assisting them in returning home.

10. Beast (2022)

• IMDb rating: 5.6/10
• Runtime: 1h 33m
• Director: Baltasar Kormákur
• Writers: Jaime Primak Sullivan along with Ryan Engle

Beast falls into the category of movies where lions attack humans. It presents the story of a newly single dad along with his two adolescent daughters who choose to go to a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa. Their aim is to strengthen their relationship and confront a menacing lion during their trip. Beast seeks to communicate the anti-poaching message through an exciting mix of action, adventure, and dramatic events.

11. Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe (2012)

• IMDb rating: 6.8/10
• Runtime: 1h 33m
• Directors: Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath, and Conrad Vernon
• Writers: Eric Darnell, Noah Baumbach, and Mark Burton

Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe It features among the roster of lion-themed movies in Hollywood. This installment holds the distinction as the third entry in the widely praised series. Madagascar The movie series follows Marty, Melman, Alex, and Gloria as they undertake a challenging journey back to the Central Park Zoo after inadvertently interrupting a celebration, which draws the notice of animal control authorities. Make sure to catch it! Madagascar 3: The Most Wanted in Europe soon.

12. The Wild (2006)

• IMDb rating: 5.2/10
• Runtime: 1h 22m
• Director: Steve 'Spaz' Williams
• Writers: Mark Gibson, Ed Decter, and John J. Strauss

The Wild follows the story of Ryan, an adolescent lion who is accidentally shipped to Africa from the New York Zoo. While his family worries, Ryan is excited to go into the wild where his father, Samson, once lived. Samson and his friends have to put their differences aside nd travel to Africa to rescue Ryan. In The Wild , the herd of animals faces severe peril.

13. The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar (2015)

• IMDb rating: 5.6/10
• Runtime: 44m
• Director: Howy Parkins
• Writer: Ford Riley

The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar It’s a fantastic lion-themed movie perfect for marathon viewing. The animated film, brimming with adventure and humor, takes place in Africa’s savanna. It centers around Kion as he gathers all the members of the Lion Guard for their duty to safeguard and oversee the Pride Lands throughout various challenges. The Lion Guard: The Return of the Roar The varied group of young creatures must come together to harness and utilize their distinct abilities.

14. Mia And The White Lion (2018)

• IMDb rating: 6.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 38m
• Director: Gilles de Maistre
• Writers: Prune de Maistre, William Davies, and Gilles de Maistre

If you seek a film filled with adventure, drama, and family-friendly content featuring lions, Mia and the Snow Leopard Should be your top choice. This story revolves around an 11-year-old girl named Mia, who moves to South Africa with her parents to oversee a farm. Mia forms a strong connection with Charlie, a young white lion that was born at her parents' house.

15. The Last Lioness (2009)

• IMDb rating: 8.6/10
• Runtime: 50m
• Director: Bronwyn Watkins
• Writer: Bronwyn Watkins

The Last Lioness Is a TV film designed to educate audiences about the challenges faced by lions. It centers around Lady Liuwa, an independent lioness residing alone on the Liuwa Plain in Zambia. With no pride to support her against threats like hunting, she must take every measure necessary for self-preservation. Can The Last Lioness make it through?

16. Roar (1981)

• IMDb rating: 6.1/10
• Runtime: 1h 35m
• Director: Noel Marshall
• Writers: Noel Marshall and Ted Cassidy

One of the finest lion attack films is Roar The movie is regarded as the most perilous production due to the involvement of numerous tigers and lions throughout the filming. Consequently, several animal assaults occurred on set. The family featured in the film encounters these hazardous beasts.

17. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008)

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Runtime: 1h 29m
• Directors: Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath
• Writers: Etan Cohen, Eric Darnell, and Tom McGrath

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa is the follow-up to the film from 2005 Madagascar . The animals from the New York Zoo—Marty the Zebra, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippopotamus, and Melman the Giraffe—are still stuck in Madagascar. Determined to return home, they construct an airplane to fly back to New York. However, when they arrive at the airport, the local creatures Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa crash-land in a wild area in Africa.

18. White Lion (2010)

• IMDb rating: 6.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 28m
• Director: Michael Swan
• Writers: Ivan Milborrow, Michael Swan, and Janet van Eeden

In White Lion, A young African boy called Gisani stops a poacher from targeting a revered white lion namedLetsatsi. The lion was ousted from his group and now must fend for himself alone. Even though he faces rejection due to his coat color, Gisani takes every measure possible to protect the animal’s life against these unlawful hunters.

19. To Walk With Lions (1999)

• IMDb rating: 6.7/10
• Runtime: 1h 48m
• Director: Carl Schultz
• Writers: Keith Ross Leckie, George Adamson, and Tony Fitzjohn

To Walk with Lions Highlights the challenges faced by the king of the jungle. Based on the life of George Adamson, a naturalist. In addition to the film, George’s story also inspired a book entitled Born Free. The movie tracks George and his helper as they manage a lion sanctuary. To Walk with Lions The pair help lions transition back into the wild from various zoos without causing distress.

20. Jungle Emperor Leo (1997)

• IMDb rating: 6.6/10
• Runtime: 1h 39m
• Director: Yoshio Takeuchi
• Writers: Osamu Tezuka and Yoshio Takeuchi

In Jungle Emperor Leo, The expedition of avaricious miners seeking valuable gems for personal profit is examined. As they persistently chase after riches, they inadvertently venture into the domain of a majestic white lion named Leo. Upon the humans' appearance, Leo, along with his clan and allies, perceives an impending threat.

21. The Ghost and the Shadows (1996)

• IMDb rating: 6.8/10
• Runtime: 1h 50m
• Director: Stephen Hopkins
• Writer: William Goldman

In The Phantom and the Lions A bridge engineer and a seasoned veteran hunter set out to track down two lions that have begun preying on local construction workers. Interestingly, just one scene employed a mechanical lion during production; all other scenes featured five fully grown wild male African lions instead.

22. The Lion Cub from Harrods (2009)

• IMDb rating: 8.1/10
• Runtime: 45m
• Directors: Suemay Oram and Jackie Osei-Tutu
• Stars: Barbara Flynn, George Adamson, and Anthony Bourke-Kington

In The Lion Cub from Harrods In the late 1960s, a young lion cub called Christian was bought from a London department store. Three years afterward, he was successfully set free into the African wilderness. The movie includes authentic archival video clips and pictures capturing Christian’s journey through his time in London and Kenya.

23. Relentless Enemies (2006)

• IMDb rating: 7.5/10
• Runtime: 1h 30m
• Directors: Beverly Joubert and Dereck Joubert
• Writer: Dereck Joubert

In Relentless Enemies , a pride of lions and their buffalo prey is trapped on an island in the Okavango Delta. Narrated by Jeremy Irons, this is a dramatic documentary about a pride of lions as they stalk and attempt to hunt notoriously powerful buffalo in difficult terrain within the delta.

24. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1988)

• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Runtime: 29m

In The Chronicles of Narnia : The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , four children journey to the enchanted realm of Narnia, where they have to confront a malevolent queen under the guidance of the noble lion, Aslan.

25. The Wolf and the Lion (2021)

• IMDb rating: 6.2/10
• Runtime: 1h 39m
• Director: Gilles de Maistre
• Writers: Prune de Maistre, Gilles de Maistre, and Richard Sadler

In The Wolf and the Lion In the midst of the Canadian wilds, a young girl rescues a wolf pup and an orphaned lion cub. This bond transforms their destinies entirely.

Which movies feature a lion as one of the characters?

Take a look at the top films featuring lions mentioned above.

Which film features an actual lion?

Roar In 1981, a film utilized actual lions, which led to several animal attack incidents. This movie ranks among the most hazardous productions ever created.

Which film features many lions?

Roar Is a movie that includes numerous lions. The film came out in 1981.

Which Disney film features a lion as one of its characters?

The Lion King And its follow-ups are Disney creations starring lions.

Despite their captivating appeal due to featuring lions, these movies carry important messages too. While some aim at encouraging people to preserve natural habitats, others focus on spreading awareness against poaching activities. Consequently, such films serve as excellent entertainment for viewers of all ages.

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