DVD Review: The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar

By John Corrado

★★½ (out of 4)

Today, Disney Junior is releasing The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar on DVD.  A TV special that aired last fall to kick off the new animated series, the story follows Simba (Rob Lowe) and Nala’s (Gabrielle Union) second born son Kion (Max Charles), who is assigned to lead the Lion Guard, assembling a diverse team of other animals who have to utilize their own unique strengths to help protect the Circle of Life.

Although The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar could be viewed as an attempt to cash in on the preexisting legacy of The Lion King, and it doesn’t have the same level of crossover appeal for adults, it often works just fine as a piece of better than average children’s entertainment.  It’s mildly enjoyable on its own terms, with enough cute characters and positive messages to make it worthwhile for younger kids.

The DVD includes a music video for the admittedly catchy Beau Black theme song “Here Comes the Lion Guard.”  There’s also a talking plastic backpack clip included in the package.

The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar is 44 minutes and rated G.