‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ explores the early life of Mufasa as he goes from orphaned cub to legendary king of the Pride Lands
Walt Disney Studios’ classic The Lion King was released 30 years ago on June 24, 1994. And now, three decades later, the much-anticipated release of ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’, a musical drama that serves as a prequel to the 2019 adaptation, is just months away.
This exciting film will take us through Mufasa’s early years, tracing his journey from an orphaned cub to his rise as the legendary king of the Pride Lands. This tale dives deep into his friendships, relationships, and the monumental events that shaped his reign.
From the talented director of ‘Moonlight’, Barry Jenkins, and returning writer Jeff Nathanson, the movie promises to bring new dimensions to the beloved story while respecting its timeless legacy. Among the star-studded cast are Beyoncé and her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, adding a special touch to this family-centric film.
Jenkins shared, “Watching Beyoncé, both on the screen and behind the scenes, being a mother really enhanced the work we were all doing. It was simply wonderful,” Jenkins told PEOPLE in April 2024.
Here’s what you need to know about the forthcoming musical drama, ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’.
What is ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ About?
The origin story of Mufasa will take viewers on a journey through his early life. From an orphaned cub to one of the greatest kings of the Pride Lands, and indeed, animated film history. The storyline will delve into the dynamics within the Pride Lands, including Mufasa’s relationship with his brother Taka, who eventually becomes Scar, the renowned antagonist. The narrative is brought to life through flashbacks narrated by Rafiki to Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter, with humorous commentary from Timon and Pumbaa.
Jenkins mentioned at Disney’s D23 Expo in 2022, “What you’ll learn is that Mufasa is shaped by the family and friends he has. I saw myself in that and thought it’s such a beautiful story to tell.”
Who is in the Cast of ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’?
The film features an impressive cast with many returning from the 2019 adaptation. Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, and Beyoncé reprise their roles as Simba, Pumbaa, Timon, Rafiki, and Nala, respectively. New cast members include Aaron Pierre as young Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as young Scar, Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Eshe, Lennie James as Obasi, and Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara in her feature film debut.
Beyoncé and Blue Ivy’s mother-daughter dynamic brings a unique flavor to the film. Blue Ivy, who has recently performed alongside her mother on the Renaissance tour, is also featured in the Grammy-winning “Brown Skin Girl” music video.
“Blue has grown quite a bit during the tour,” Jenkins noted. “The movie captures a beautiful moment in their lives that fits perfectly with the story.”
What Will Be on the Soundtrack of ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’?
Music is a crucial part of The Lion King experience, and ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ is no exception. Fans can look forward to original tracks by award-winning songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, known for his work on ‘Hamilton’ and other Disney hits like ‘Moana’ and ‘Encanto’.
“The Lion King has a rich musical legacy, and I’m honored to be part of it,” Miranda stated. “Working with Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life has been a joy. We can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.”
When Does ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Come Out?
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ is set to be released on Dec. 20, 2024. Mark your calendars!
Is There a Trailer for ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’?
Walt Disney Studios released the first trailer for ‘Mufasa’ on April 29. The trailer begins with Rafiki narrating as a lion cub gazes at his reflection in a raindrop. Rafiki introduces him as Mufasa: “Born without a drop of nobility in his blood — a lion who would change our lives forever.” Set against the backdrop of Ledo M’s vocals in the original “Circle of Life,” the trailer features visuals of giraffes, lions, elephants, and a young Mufasa in the Pride Lands, along with scenes of snow and ice. While Rafiki’s narration is the only voice heard, the clips foretell a tale full of action and adventure.
