The Lion King 3 (also named Lion King 1 1/2 in the USA) was released in 2004, and is a direct-to-video film.

This new sequel, originally was meant for a theatrical release. This explains why the technical side is largely higher than the previous sequel. Unfortunately, the bad results of Disney in theaters at the time lead to a DVD only release.

When Disney announced this sequel, they surprised everyone because it's not really a sequel but a spin-off of the original. Moreover, it is clearly a parody, using the same scenario but from another point of view...

The scenario is centered this time on the two care-free characters Timon & Pumba (who also had a dedicated TV series)

The film has suffered varied critics from the fans : some love it (I do), others hate it. In any case, all Lion King fans should watch it at least once!

This film was released on February 10, 2004 to the United States.

Disney official scenario :
 

Comfortably sitted in front of their television set, Tiller and Pumbaa decides to pass by again the history of King Lion, but while going up well before the birth of Simba. At that time, in the community of the suricates, Timon was regarded as a genuine ball by its congeneric. It had to leave to them his and met Pumbaa in way, a phacochère which was going to become his/her best friend. During a time, their carefree life proceeded that of Simba parallel to without never their roads not crossing. One day however...