A journey of Self Discovery
The Jungle Book (2016) is the latest adaptation of Disney's famous animated film from 1967, of the same name. I saw the original 1967 film may years ago on TV while still in school (yes, many years ago). So I did have some expectations when going to see this. I did spend the money and actually see this one in the cinema, a rare occasion these days.
If you haven't seen either movie or read the book, the story line is something like this. Mowgli (Neel Sethi) has lived in the jungle since very, very young, he can't remember anything else or any humans from his past. The only mother figure he has ever known is a wolf.
He has a best friend as all little boys do, this one is a panther, named Bagheera (Ben Kingsley) and also looks out for him. Not all the animals in the Jungle however want him there, especially a treacherous tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba).
The situation becomes untenable and Bagheera has to return the man-cub to the man village. Thus begins the journey and adventure. As with any journey the group meet various characters along the way, some of which are helpful, some of which have their own agenda.
I was reminded of the original while watching this movie, and the CGI/special effects do take it to another level. I am not sure I would be taking younger children to see this movie. As unlike the original which was a cartoon, the animals, and jungle are "too" real. Some younger viewers may not be able to make the distinction.
Putting this aside, I do consider this to be an excellent movie and definitely worth seeing.