Disney live-action remake: The Lion King

First, there was Cinderella, then there was The Jungle Book and then Beauty and the Beast – and now, finally, Disney’s The Lion King is getting the live-action remake treatment in July 2019.

The official trailer is finally out. Where the first teaser tapped into our everlasting nostalgia, this longer first look offers an understanding of the breathtaking realism with which the animals of this kingdom will be captured.

The Lion King remake will be directed by The Jungle Book and Iron Man's Jon Favreau, and will see actor and musician Donald Glover (aka Childish Gambino) voice the grown Simba. Queen Bey herself, the mighty Beyoncé, will be joining to voice the feisty lioness and main love interest, Nala.

A fantastic ensemble cast is rounded off by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who will lend his voice to villain Scar. A who's who of current comedy legends including John Oliver, Keegan Michael Key and Seth Rogen are all set to feature in what might well be scene-stealing cameo roles.

The Lion King, first released in 1994, is one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time. Following the huge success of recent live-action remakes of Disney classics, we think it's safe to say that this will be another global box-office hit.

Of all the possible Disney remakes we could hope for, this is surely the most exciting. Hakuna matata, everyone.