The Lion King Simba is given some valuable perspective from his childhood friend, Nala, and his shaman, Rafiki, before returning to challenge Scar to end his tyranny and take his place in the Circle of Life as the rightful King. Development of "The Lion King" began in 1988 during a meeting between Jeffrey Katzenberg, Roy E. Disney, and Peter Schneider while promoting "Oliver & Company" in Europe. Thomas Disch wrote a film treatment, and Woolverton developed the first scripts, while George Scribner was signed on as director, being later joined by Allers. Production began in 1991 concurrently with "Pocahontas", which wound up attracting
Scar (The Lion King) to blame his crimes on the hyenas, unaware that they are listening nearby. Simba ignores Scar and gives him one last chance to run away and never return. When Simba's back is turned, Scar attacks him and they fight. Simba overpowers Scar and throws him over the cliff ledge to the base of Pride Rock. Scar survives the fall, but is attacked and killed by the vengeful hyenas. The success of "The Lion King "spawned a Broadway musical based on the film, directed by Julie Taymor with a book written by "The Lion King "co-director Roger Allers and screenwriter Irene