Disney announced a live-action “The Lion King” prequel titled “Mufasa: The Lion King,“ coming to theatres in 2024. it tells the story of Simba’s father, Mufasa, who rose from humble beginnings to become the king and ruler of all the Pridelands. Disney officially announced the news on their social media account during Disney’s 2022 D23 Expo. Check out the first-look poster below.
Directed by Barry Jenkins from a screenplay written by Jeff Nathanson., “I had to make this movie,” said Jenkins. “Because when I was 14 I was raising two nephews and there was a VHS tape that we watched about 95 times in the span of two days. I was thinking about Mufasa and how he becomes great… I am not a king, I am not a king… Mufasa is great because of the family and friends he has with him.”
Aaron Pierre will be voicing Mufasa, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. will voice Taka. “Mufasa was actually an orphaned cub who had to navigate the world alone himself, and in telling this story, we get to experience the real journey of how Mufasa found his place in the circle of life,” said Jenkins of the character, who goes on to become Simba’s father.
Who Is Mufasa?
Mufasa was born the first son of Ahadi and Uru, in Pride Rock, the eldest brother of Askari, and as the heir to the throne of Pride Rock, while his younger brother served as the leader of the Lion Guard. When the two were adolescents, Askari returned to Pride Rock after a solo patrol in the Outlands. He informed Mufasa of his victory over a rogue lion’s attempt to take over the Pride Lands.
Speaking to Variety, Jenkins told “I grew up with these characters, they mean so much to me. I think the work that Jeff Nathanson, the writer, did and going back into really helping children and anyone who ever loved this property understand what it takes. Kings aren’t just born, they aren’t just made. They have to become who they are through a series of events that a lot of people can relate to. So, in that standpoint, it fits very well with everything else I’ve done. So I feel no pressure, I just want to do a good job.”
The Lion King released in 2019, was directed by Jon Favreau. The film grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide during its theatrical run. it follows Simba, a young lion who must embrace his role as the rightful king of his homeland following the murder of his father, Mufasa, at the hands of his uncle, Scar.
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ will hit theaters on December 20, 2024, by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
Source: Twitter
