by Nathaniel R
Rudyard Kipling's collection of stories "The Jungle Book" was first published in 1894. It's been adapted so many times now, you always have to specify which version you're talking about. The most famous and widely seen is surely Disney's 1967 animated version which opened in movie theaters 50 years ago on this very day. It's been a childhood staple for decades now with Disney only just barely trying to replace it with that inferior but wildly successful live-action CGI hybrid replica. When I was a wee toddler it was my favorite Disney movie (it's long since been replaced but holds a special place in my heart).
Today's crucial reader survey / comment party:
Which character do you most relate to... and which do you wish you were a little more like?
Let's hear from the lot of you for a wide sampling of our particular online jungle here at The Film Experience. Your options, in order of their appearance, are...
BAGHEERA
Are you a bossy worrier? Maybe that's because everyone else is so irresponsible and you have to watch out for them! You've got a big heart but you're a little stuffy. (I'll be brave and go first in this poll: I'm a bit of a Bagheera but maybe I wish I were more of a King Louie/Mowgli)
MOWGLI
Are you headstrong but kinda immature? Easily duped but brave and resilient. Always up for trying new things and highly social? Then you're Mowgli. (Or maybe you're none of those things but just like to run around naked all the time.)
KAA
You have a soooothing voice (and can do a great Winnie the Pooh impression). Can you hold a room rapt with your stories? Do you tie yourself up in knots trying to get things in your mouth?
COLONEL HATHI
So many bossy types in this jungle. Perhaps military men relate to him?
BALOO
Don't raise your hand just because you're a gay "bear". Bears come in many personality types. Do you stay out to late and drive your more responsible friends crazy? Love dancing and eating and any hedonistic pleasures? Maybe your favorite Disney song outside of "Bare Necessities" is "Hakuna Matata"? But you're always a good time and an optimist that counts for a lot.
KING LOUIE
In many ways you're almost a Baloo! But you're more of a bossy ringleader with a plan than a solo hedonist. And you're even crazier about bananas and dance parties. Maybe you have some envy problems, tho' -- no judgments! (This is a safe space)
SHERE KHAN
Don't dismiss the possibility that you're a Shere Khan just because he's the villain! Disney has issues with its depictions of villains, don'cha know? Yes, he's mean-spirited, jealous, and sneakily malevolent. But he's also sophisticated, intelligent, graceful, patient, sarcastically funny, and smart. Plus he's a beautiful ginger and whether or not they're going extinct, they're worth treasuring.
VULTURES
Are you always hoping someone else will come up with the fun plans. Or maybe you're just perpetually bored. But if you are you probably haven't read this far.
SO DEAR READERS, CONFESS!
Which of these creatures is just like you and which has you singing King Louie's "I wanna be like you-oo-oo" anthem?