The initial trailer for Disney’s upcoming film “Mufasa: The Lion King” has been unveiled, marking it as a prequel to the 2019 photorealistic rendition of “The Lion King.”
Additionally, it has been disclosed that Blue Ivy Carter will be part of the voice cast for the movie.
A Closer Look at the Cast as Blue Ivy Carter Joins the Legacy of “Mufasa: The Lion King”
Directed by Barry Jenkins, known for his work on “Moonlight,” “Mufasa” will delve into the backstory of the iconic lion character, exploring his early years alongside his brother Taka, also known as Scar, who evolves into the primary antagonist in “The Lion King.” Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. will lend their voices to portray the younger versions of Mufasa and Scar, respectively. Notably, James Earl Jones, who voiced Mufasa in both the original 1994 film and its 2019 remake, will reprise his role. Jeremy Irons voiced Scar in 1994, while Chiwetel Ejiofor took on the role in the 2019 adaptation.
Several members of the voice cast from the 2019 film will return for “Mufasa,” including John Kani as Rafiki, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, Donald Glover as Simba, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala. Moreover, Beyoncé’s daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, will portray Kiara, the offspring of King Samba and Queen Nala. Jon Favreau directed the 2019 film, with a screenplay by Jeff Nathanson, who is set to return to pen the script for “Mufasa.”
Additionally, it has been disclosed that Lin-Manuel Miranda is crafting the musical compositions for the film, overseen by both himself and Mark Mancina. Further enhancing the musical landscape, Lebo M will contribute additional music and performances to “Mufasa.”
“Elton John. Tim Rice. Hans Zimmer. Lebo M. Mark Mancina. Beyoncé, Labrinth, Ilya Salmanzadeh. Beau Black, Ford Riley, the incredible music team on ‘The Lion Guard,’ and so many musical contributors over the years. ‘The Lion King’ has an incredible musical legacy with music from some of the greatest songwriters around, and I’m humbled and proud to be a part of it,” Miranda said in a statement. “It’s been a joy working alongside Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.”
Watch the full trailer for “Mufasa: The Lion King” below. The film will premiere in theaters Dec. 20.
Expanding the Pride: New Faces, Director’s Vision, and Box Office Triumphs of The Lion King
Joining the ensemble cast are several new members, including Tiffany Boone in the role of Sarabi, Kagiso Lediga portraying Young Rafiki, Preston Nyman as Zazu, and Mads Mikkelsen lending his voice to Kiros, a powerful lion with ambitious aspirations for his pride. Thandiwe Newton takes on the role of Taka’s mother, Eshe, while Lennie James voices Taka’s father, Obasi. Anika Noni Rose is set to portray Mufasa’s mother, Afia, with Keith David rounding out the new additions as Mufasa’s father, Masego.
“Helping my sister raise two young boys during the ’90s, I grew up with these characters. Having the opportunity to work with Disney on expanding this magnificent tale of friendship, love, and legacy while furthering my work chronicling the lives and souls of folk within the African diaspora is a dream come true,” Jenkins said of the prequel.
Regarded as one of Disney’s most triumphant franchises, the original 1994 “Lion King” amassed a staggering $960 million in global box office revenue. Its 2019 counterpart surpassed this achievement, grossing an impressive $1.6 billion worldwide. Furthermore, the remake earned recognition as one of Variety’s Critic’s Picks in 2019, solidifying its acclaim among audiences and critics alike.
In his review, chief film critic Peter Debruge wrote, “If you were never a fan of ‘The Lion King,’ then nothing here will win you over. On the other hand, for those too young ever to have seen it, this could be a life-changing experience, one that strives to create a kind of understanding between audiences and the animal kingdom that Disney once made a regular part of its mission, back in the era of films such as ‘The Legend of Lobo’ and ‘The Incredible Journey.’”
