Since its inception, the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) film company has featured several lions in its title sequence, but none are as iconic as Leo the Lion, who has been the face of MGM films since 1957. In 2021, Leo was updated with computer graphics, although these visuals were based on original footage. Interestingly, since the early 1980s, Leo has not roared in his own voice.
Sound engineer Mark Mangini was tasked with reworking the title sequence for stereo format and found that Leo's original roar lacked the ferocity he desired. To enhance the impact, Mangini edited a new version of the roar using recordings of a tiger instead. This decision transformed Leo's presence in the title sequence, making it more powerful and memorable for audiences.
Thus, while Leo remains a beloved symbol of MGM, his roar is no longer his own but rather a tiger's, showcasing how sound design can significantly influence cinematic experiences.
