Film: The Jungle Book (2016)

Overview of The Jungle Book (2016)

The Jungle Book (2016) is a live-action/CGI adventure film produced by Walt Disney Pictures.
It is a reimagining of the 1967 animated film, based on Rudyard Kipling’s collective works.
The adaptation was released on April 15, 2016, directed by Jon Favreau and written by Justin Marks.
The live-action storytelling allowed for a more complex narrative where Mowgli juggles his identity between the human and animal world.

The impressive production was completed by Moving Picture Company (MPC) and Weta Digital who crafted realistic animals and environments.
The cast boasts a suite of well-known actors, including Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, and Scarlett Johansson, who provided their voices for the animated characters.
John Debney composed the film’s score, including new versions of the old songs from the 1967 film.
The technology used in creating lifelike yet talking animals was a huge achievement and helped in making the film a visual spectacle.

The Jungle Book (2016) was distributed in various formats including 3D and IMAX 3D, making it a big spectacle for audiences, and maximising profits.
It was also later distributed on numerous home video formats, and is now available on streaming platforms, most prominently Disney+.
The film had a significant number of tie-ins including video games and merchandise, maximising the commercial potential.

It grossed over $966 million globally, with a budget of $175 million, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2016.
The Jungle Book (2016) was praised for its visual effects, performances, and emotional depth, unlike the mixed reviews of the original.
This film’s success encouraged Disney to remake other classics in a live-action/ CGI format such as The Lion King and Aladdin.

The inclusivity of ethnic casting in a mainstream film, though subtle, points to a shifting context in Hollywood concerning representation.
The film is a clear representation of the advancement in digital effects technologies in the 21st century.
The anthropomorphising of animals to express human emotions is a continued trait seen in Disney and indicates society’s sophisticated interaction with digital content.

The film appealed to a broad audience landscape, from young children entranced by the talking animals, to adults appreciative of the complex narrative and visual spectacle.
The 2016 remake was successful in catering to nostalgic audiences familiar with the original, while also engaging younger, fresher audiences.
The high-end voices and realistic CGI lending themselves to children’s appeal while the darker, layered narrative attracted mature viewers.

Marketing focused on the visuals of the gothic jungle and talking animals to stimulate intrigue amongst potential viewers.
Extensive merchandise including toys, clothes, and games was made available to further market the film.
Promotional tie-ins with various brands including Airbnb and Subway along with an interactive site promoted the film to wider audiences.