THE JUNGLE BOOK (2016) Movie Review

Luke 6:37-38 says “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven."

The Jungle Book is an unbelievable live-action remake of the 1967 animated film about an Indian child named Mowgli. He is abandoned in the jungle as an infant, adopted and raised by wolves, and eventually reunited with humans after an dangerous tiger drives him out of the jungle. It is a bittersweet adventure the whole way, but the remake takes the story to a whole new level.

Though the dangers of the jungle remain, Mowgli also struggles with his own identity. He is an individualistic and inventive human raised in a family that demands unified thinking and teamwork. This discourages and alienates him from the family he loves. He struggles for a way to win his family's acceptance for his approach to living life.

That opportunity comes in the form a tiger called Shere Khan and the most feared animal in the jungle. Shere Khan hates humans, because of a vicious injury that leaves his face scarred. It drives his mind into prejudice. Upon his discovery of Mowgli, his bitterness and rage drives him to destroy the innocent child. If one human is guilty, then all humans are guilty.

He could not be more wrong about Mowgli, because Mowgli is an intelligent, kind, love, and self sacrificing child. Even when his family faces the difficult decision of sending Mowgli away in order to protect him, he makes the decision for them.

In his efforts to destroy Mowgli, he becomes a worse monster than the human he claims to despise. He murders the head of Mowgli's family and takes control of the wolf pack. He attacks Mowgli's savior and best friend, Bagheera. Worst of all, he attempts to spread his hate throughout Mowgli's family and friends. It is that same prejudice that prevents him from giving Mowgli the benefit of the doubt.

Regardless, Mowgli rises to the occasion. He keeps the love of the jungle, because they all recognize his kind heart.They accept him. They value him. They cherish him. They forgive his mistakes. They consider him family.

Meanwhile, Shere Khan's desire for revenge drives him directly into his inevitable downfall. He is so blinded by anger, he fails to see the trap constructed by Mowgli. Instead of heeding his survival instincts and leaping into his own destruction.

The Jungle Book is a terrific story about the fruits of one's attitude. Mowgli has a kind and giving heart. Therefore, he is blessed with love from friends and family. He also earns the respect of the most revered animals in the jungle. Shere Khan is bitter, violent, and unforgiving. Therefore, he lives a unproductive, lonely life which leads to his own destruction.

I urge you, friends, to heed this lesson.