“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a 2024 photorealistic CGI prequel to Disney’s 2019 “The Lion King,” directed by Barry Jenkins. The film explores Mufasa’s origins, depicting his journey from an orphaned cub to the revered king of the Pride Lands.
The narrative unfolds through flashbacks, with Rafiki recounting Mufasa’s tale to young Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter. Mufasa, voiced by Aaron Pierre, begins life as an orphaned cub named Mufasa, who is separated from his parents, Masego and Afia, by a devastating flood. He is subsequently adopted by a new pride led by King Obasi, where he forms a brotherly bond with Obasi’s heir, Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), who later becomes known as Scar. As Mufasa matures, he faces challenges that test his resilience and character, including confrontations with rival lions and internal family conflicts. The film delves into themes of brotherhood, identity, and the influence of a mother’s love, highlighting Mufasa’s rise to royalty and the complexities of his relationship with Taka.
Aaron Pierre as Mufasa: An orphaned lion who grows up to become the future king of the Pride Lands.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka/Scar: Mufasa’s adoptive brother, whose envy and ambition lead to his transformation into Scar.
Lennie James as King Obasi: The leader of the pride that adopts Mufasa.
Thandiwe Newton as Queen Eshe: Obasi’s mate and mother figure to Mufasa.
John Kani as Rafiki: The wise mandrill who guides Mufasa on his journey.
Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen reprise their roles as Timon and Pumbaa, providing comic relief and wisdom.
Barry Jenkins brings a nuanced perspective to the film, emphasizing character development and visual storytelling. The animation showcases breathtaking landscapes, from lush jungles to expansive savannas, enhancing the narrative’s emotional depth. Jenkins’s direction offers a fresh take on the familiar world of “The Lion King,” balancing the grandeur of the setting with intimate character moments.
The film features a dynamic soundtrack led by Lin-Manuel Miranda, blending new compositions with familiar themes. The music underscores the film’s emotional beats, enhancing the storytelling and providing a contemporary touch to the classic tale.
Upon its release on December 20, 2024, “Mufasa: The Lion King” received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its visual artistry and emotional storytelling, though some noted that it remains anchored in Disney’s commercial framework. The film holds a favorable rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its warm reception from audiences and critics alike.
The film led the North American box office on Christmas Day 2024, earning $14.7 million from 4,100 theaters, bringing its total domestic earnings to $64.3 million.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is currently available exclusively in theaters. While a streaming release date on Disney+ has not been officially announced, it is anticipated to follow a similar pattern to previous Disney releases, potentially becoming available for digital purchase in late February 2025 and streaming on Disney+ by March 2025.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” offers a rich exploration of a beloved character’s backstory, combining stunning visuals, a compelling narrative, and a memorable soundtrack to deliver a cinematic experience that appeals to both new audiences and long-time fans of the franchise.
