Barry Jenkins (Moonlight, If Beale Street Could Talk) brings his signature storytelling magic to Mufasa: The Lion King, a visually stunning and emotionally charged prequel to Disney’s beloved The Lion King franchise.
Unlike the 2019 remake, Mufasa benefits from its freedom to tell an entirely original story, unburdened by comparisons to the iconic and much-loved 1994 classic. This creative liberty allows Jenkins to explore themes of family, loyalty and destiny without the looming shadow of nostalgia. The result is a film that feels both respectful of its roots as well as able to stand on its own two feet. In turn, this solidifies Disney’s efforts to shift their live-action strategy toward original narratives within existing franchises.
Mufasa’s journey unfolds as a young lion adrift after being separated from his parents, finding sanctuary within a royal pride. There, he forms an unbreakable bond with the heir to the throne, Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.). Their childhood friendship develops into an even stringer bond when Taka’s pride is invaded by a group of predatory lions who seek to kill every last one of them. Rafiki (voiced once again by John Kani) weaves Mufasa’s tale for Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter, daughter of pop superstars Beyoncé and Jay Z), Simba and Nala’s curious daughter, his words painting a vivid portrait of the future king’s rise to power. Aaron Pierre voices Mufasa, lending his voice to the orphaned cub who finds his destiny amidst the pride.
Jenkins doesn’t shy away from darker emotional beats, illustrating how love and resentment coexist in a way that adds depth to an iconic rivalry. Aaron Pierre delivers a powerful vocal performance as Mufasa, exuding a regal warmth while portraying the lion’s struggles and triumphs. Kelvin Harrison Jr. is equally captivating as Taka, capturing the vulnerability and brewing bitterness of a prince overshadowed by his adoptive brother. The film is elevated further by its supporting cast – Thandiwe Newton and Lennie James add gravitas as Taka’s parents, while Tiffany Boone’s Sarabi introduces a quiet strength that complements Mufasa’s journey.
Jenkins’ direction shines brightest in Mufasa’s sweeping visuals and meticulous pacing. The photorealistic animation, though familiar from the 2019 film, feels far more alive and dynamic here. Vast savannahs, vibrant sunsets, and heart-pounding sequences immerse viewers like never before. Accompanied by an evocative and hugely catchy soundtrack courtesy of Lin Manuel Miranda, the film feels like a natural extension of its predecessors.
While it faces the pitfalls of prequels—chiefly, the weight of explaining origins and bridging established lore—it ultimately succeeds as an engaging and heartfelt addition that offers fresh layers to familiar characters.
Ultimately, Mufasa: The Lion King stands as a major course correction for Disney’s live-action slate. It shows that audiences are eager for original stories within cherished franchises rather than carbon-copy remakes. Barry Jenkins’ vision not only does justice to the legacy of The Lion King but enriches it by delivering a powerful tale about the making of a king. For fans both old and new, Mufasa proves that even well-worn paths can lead to extraordinary journeys.
