Babar: King of the Elephants is a 1999 animated film based on Jean de Brunhoff's book series.
It was made by Nelvana Limited and released in theaters in Canada and the U.S. by Miramax Films and later on home video by HBO Home Video.
It is the second Babar film, following Babar: The Movie.
Plot[]
Babar's mother is killed by hunters which forces him to flee to a nearby city. He is taken in by an older woman who raises him as if he is human. His elephant friends later find him, although they had presumed him dead.
Babar returns with them to the forest, bringing human culture with him. Although Babar is keen for elephants to adopt more human customs, this is innately problematic.
Voice Cast[]
- Dan Lett as King Babar
- Kristin Fairlie as Young Babar
- Janet-Laine Green as Queen Celeste
- Jennifer Martini as Young Celeste
- Chris Wiggins as Cornelius
- Philip Williams as Zephir
- Amos Crawley as Uncle Arthur
- Kyle Fairlie as Young Arthur/Alexander
- Elizabeth Hanna as Madame
- Wayne Robson as Marabou/Sales Manager
- Ellen-Ray Hennessy as Babar's Mother/Misfortune
- Paul Paddock as Elevator Boy/Tailor
Release[]
"Babar: King of the Elephants" first premiered in United States on June 18, 1999. In the United States, it was given a limited theatrical release.
Box Office[]
During the film's limited theatrical release in the United States, it opened at #50 at the box office, showing in only 52 theaters, grossing $49,090 during its opening weekend.
Domestically, it grossed $227,374.
Critical Reception[]
Brian Costello from Common Sense Media described the film as a "delightful story, with one scary moment for younger kids."
Stephen Holden from The New York Times described the animated film will captures the heart for the entertainment event of our time