The Lion King - Analysis of sound

The Lion King has a certificate U.

The Sound in the opening sequence of The Lion King is empathetic sound, this means it fits what is going on in the scene. The music has a happy and majestic mood, which suggests that the genre fits these moods as well. The music also suggests that the film is aimed at children but will also appeal to adults.

The music represents characters by changing speed and volume to show the different classes between characters. For example when the King and his family are shown the music is slightly louder to emphasise their presence, but also becomes more gentle to represent their royalty. The when the other animals are shown, the music is slightly quieter to show that the Lions are superior to them. The music is also slightly more upbeat when the other animals are shown to show the chaos of their lives compared to the King and his family being relaxed and living in luxury.

The lyrics in the song suggests the narrative. The circle of life is the song used. The lyrics sort of contrast with the scene because the scene is happy and bright. However, the lyrics suggest that eventually the animals will die and this sequence will continue forever in a circle.

The atmosphere created by the music is initially happy as it is upbeat and because what the audience are seeing on screen is happy, the music fits with it.