Coming-of-age: Simba, the main character, begins the story as a carefree young cub. He is then thrust into a challenging situation when his father, Mufasa, dies and he is forced to take on the responsibilities of being king. Simba must learn from his mistakes and grow up quickly in order to become the leader he is destined to be.
Family: The Lion King is also a story about family. Simba's relationship with his father, Mufasa, is central to the plot. Mufasa's death is a defining moment for Simba, and he must learn to cope with the loss of his father while still fulfilling his responsibilities as king. The film also explores the importance of found family, as Simba finds support from his friends Timon and Pumbaa after he flees from Pride Rock.
Responsibility: Simba's journey is one of learning to accept his responsibilities as king. He initially runs away from his duties, but he eventually realizes that he must return and face his destiny. Simba learns that being a king is not just about power and privilege, but also about duty and service to others.
In conclusion, the authors of The Lion King crafted a story that explores the universal themes of coming-of-age, family, and responsibility. The film has resonated with audiences around the world for its beautiful animation, memorable songs, and powerful story.