'The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride' frustratingly copies its predecessor too much, but there is still enough fresh material for it to be enjoyable.

I have split feelings for this film. I like a lot of the story progression, as we follow Simba's Pride. A few of the new characters are decent, too. However, a lot of the film comes across as too much of a retread; particularly across the first half. If it was more original from beginning to end, then I'd be rating it higher.

Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Robert Guillaume and, minorly, James Earl Jones all return to voice Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki and Mufasa respectively. Kiara, Kovu and Zira are all newly created. Jason Marsden does a good job as Kovu, while Neve Campbell and Suzanne Pleshette are solid as the other two. I like the cast.

The animation, considering it's a Disney sequel, is excellent. The songs aren't quite so grand, though one-or-two are alright; namely "Not One of Us". The score is satisfactory, coolly sharing parts that can be heard in 2003's 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' - my favourite film.

One of the best animated sequels from this studio, though that probably says more about their previous attempts with follow-ups in truth. Still, this is worth giving a watch.