The Jungle Book: A Wonder for the Ages

​The Jungle Book is marvelous as it is engrossing; this rare remake is a feast for the eyes of all ages. The newest Disney Masterpiece has finally arrived. 

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​​Behold, a beautiful creation of filmmaking that sets a new standard for CGI. The Jungle Book has finally arrived. The film captivates you with an all-star voice cast consisting of Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, Idris Elba, Lupita Nyong'o, Scarlett Johansson, Giancarlo Esposito, Christopher Walken and the late Garry Shandling. These diverse actors bring joy to the movie and breath life into their respected characters. Director Jon Favreau (Elf and Iron Man) crafts the film with elegance and skill.

He even gives author Rudyard Kipling’s incredible story justice it deserves. The remake actually improves upon the predecessors (The Jungle Book, 1967), proving that not all Hollywood remakes are for cash grabs. In this reimagining of the classic collection of stories, Favreau uses visually stunning CGI to create the community of animals surrounding Mowgli (a terrific Neel Sethi), a human boy adopted by a pack of wolves. However, not every animal is pleased of Mowgli’s appearance and differences to the animal community.

He is known as the “man cub.” Cue the villainous tiger named Shere Khan (a fierce Elba). Shere Khan forces Mowgli out of the village guided by his guardian, the panther Bagheera (a comforting Kingsley). Bagheera is Mowgli’s shepherd and is trying to guide him to safety to the “man village.” Along the way, the Mowgli meets an affable, lazy bear named Baloo (the comedic Murray), as well as a snake with hypnotic powers (a seductive Johansson) and an orangutan (a downright wonderful Walken) who wants to harness the power of fire. Nyong'o, Esposito, and the late Shandling also help lend their voices to this adventurous tale.

Favreau even pays tribute to the original animated film, as he plays “The Bare Necessities” in a honorable river scene. Families will be thrilled with the new adventure that truly takes your breath away. If you see it, I advise you to go all out and see it on the IMAX in 3D. The Jungle Book is one of the best family outings of 2016, as it grapples with friendship, adventure, diversity and equality for everyone. This digitized world is a complete awe factor and will inspire future CGI films. The Jungle Book won my heart over from the very first shot. The film is dazzling, unforgettable and captures that sense of wonder. Adventure is out there and The Jungle Book is waiting for you to join. 

The Jungle Book is rate PG (Parental Guidance). For some sequences of scary action and peril.