Barry Jenkins, the Academy Award-winning filmmaker, is directing this prequel, which chronicles the rise of a young Mufasa to power.
The trailer for ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ is out! Directed by Barry Jenkins, known for ‘Moonlight,’ the film explores Simba’s father’s journey to power. Inspired by Jon Favreau’s 2019 version of Disney’s classic animated film, it promises a fresh take on the beloved story.
The trailer’s opening scene features a sprawling forest, the peaceful home of the animal kingdom, offering glimpses of Mufasa’s journey and encounters with various characters, including adventures that shape his journey. The cast includes Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, Billy Eichner as Timon, Donald Glover as Simba, John Kani as Rafiki, and Seth Rogen as Pumbaa.
The official summary reads as follows: “Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka — the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny — their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.”
The music in the film was created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, while Jeff Nathanson wrote the screenplay for the 2019 movie directed by Jon Favreau.
In response to the trailer, one fan wrote, “This looks more impressive and promising than its predecessor…”
“Hopefully, with Barry Jenkins directing this, it will be something special Here’s hoping,” said a second admirer.
Someone commented, “I guess from this trailer we see where Simba got his adventurous vibe from. I thought he was just curious but now it feels like he got it from his father.”
“I’m actually surprised. The environments look more beautiful and more colorful and the animals have more expression and life in them. I’m pretty excited,” said another.
The Lion King’s prequel, ‘Mufasa,’ is scheduled for release in theaters on December 20.