I think everyone, or rather most cinephiles, knows that The Lion King (1994) is one of the beloved classics we have so far and it's my favourite animated film.
Aside from commending the cast performance, brilliant storyline, stunning effects and life-like cinematography, another part of this iconic animation that I love is the villain, Scar. Beyond a film villain being cruel and working to undermine the cause of the protagonist in any film, I love it when such a villain is smart, makes shocking moves and takes the viewers on a wild ride.
Scar, the brother to the king of Pridelands, made this animation a classic. If it were all about Mufasa ruling as king and Simba growing up to take his place as the heir, it wouldn't be fascinating to watch. Viewers would be bored and wish for that 'spark' that would set the film on fire and make the animals run for their dear lives.
The Spark Of The Film
Scar is the spark that sets The Lion King on fire. We are introduced to this character somewhere at the beginning of the film after the presentation of Simba, the heir to the Pridelands. Mufasa and Zazu confront him for his absence at the ceremony. Scar makes it clear that the throne belongs to him and not Simba.
Mufasa asks whether Scar wants a challenge but he denies it and reveals that,
"...I wouldn't dream of challenging you…Well, as far as brains go, I've got the lion's share. But when it comes to brute strength, I'm afraid I'm at the shallow end of the dream pool."
I couldn't agree more with this statement because Scar proved to be a smart and worthy villain. Indeed he had the 'brains' and his genius was put on full display throughout the film.
I think the statement also set the stage for the future of Mufasa and Simba. Mufasa swallowed Scar's words, became too confident and dependent on his 'strength' which eventually led to his death and Simba's exile from the Pridelands.
Scar, A Politician?
Scar’s claim to superior intelligence is not some joke. He convinced the hyenas to join his cause, lied to them about the need for a new king and how Mufasa had failed. He also appealed to what mattered most to the hyenas —their stomach (food). They were enticed, joined forces with Scar to coordinate a stampede that resulted in Mufasa's death and convinced Simba that he was to be blamed for his father's death.
I see the role of Scar in The Lion King like most politicians in the world. They know how to speak smooth words, persuade people to believe in their cause, coordinate activities to ensure the votes go in their favour and when they get to the office, they act contrary to their manifestos and often disappoint the populace.
When Scar ruled as king, he became a tyrant. The Pridelands fell into chaos and famine unlike when Mufasa was king. This made the lions long for a better rule and it became easy to side with Simba after his return.
Overall, Scar is a worthy and true villain. He showed his mean streak in every scene in the animation and you cannot but admire his intelligence.
This is my entry to the Cine TV Contest #35 - Favourite Film Villain. To participate, just click on the link and it will take you straight to the post. The deadline is 25th October, 2022, 11:59 PM, UTC.
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Images are screenshots from the movie