Funnily enough, I never actually watched the Lion King movie so I don't really understand the many references we see in this video game.  However I know enough about it due to seeing it so many times in commercials, magazines and posters that I have a very good idea what it's like.  I also clearly remember my classmates loved this movie and it was VERY popular for at least a few months, and was actually the talk of the town in my school.  I also remember Elton John had a resurgence in popularity with classics such as "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?" and "Circle of Life" which dominated the radio airwaves.