Mufasa: The Lion King – six important things to know before watching the prequel | Ents & Arts News

Disney has added another film to its most successful franchise, The Lion King – this time about Mufasa’s journey from boy to king of Pride Rock.

Inspired by the 1994 animation, the latest addition is a live-action feature film and is directed by Moonlight filmmaker Barry Jenkins.

Before you head to your nearest theater, here are six things you need to know about the film. Don’t worry, there are no spoilers.

What is “Mufasa: The Lion King” about?

Mufasa is synonymous with one of the most heartbreaking moments in all of Disney films, but aside from being Simba’s father and Scar’s brother, fans know little about him.

In this prequel film, we follow Mufasa as a young cub who gets lost and meets a friendly lion cub and heir to a royal bloodline named Taka.

This meeting sets the stage for the future king and we embark on his journey to meet his future wife Sarabi and friends.

Do I have to watch The Lion King to understand Mufasa: The Lion King?

Not necessarily, but it’s an important reference point throughout the film.

In the new live-action sequel, we met some of the “great kings of the past” first mentioned in the 1994 original.

The story is told through flashbacks as Rafiki tells Simba’s daughter Kiara about the “circle of life” and why it’s important to “remember who you are.”

The decision to do this makes it easier for young minds to follow along, but if you want to enjoy the full experience and understand the incessant references to the original, it would be wise to watch either the animated film, the 2019 live-action film or Watching the musical again is a good idea.

Tiffany Boone, who voices a young Sarabi (Simba’s mother), says her opinion of Scar changed slightly after starring in the new film.

She tells Sky News: “I think I can empathize with Scar a lot more than before. I’m not saying he’s right to do what he did in the original version, but you understand how the relationship between Mufasa and Scar got to the point where it’s so controversial and that’s why I have a bit now softer place in my heart for Scar.”

Who stars in Mufasa: The Lion King?

Mufasa: The Lion King is led by Croydon actor Aaron Pierre, who has starred in Rebel Ridge and Genius and Foe.

He says it was a “huge honor” to take on the role of Mufasa and hopes he does justice to James Earl Jones as a younger version of his character.

The actor posed for photos on Pride Rock at the UK premiere – a moment he says he won’t forget.

“That was really special. The London premiere was simply beautiful. London came with all this wonderful energy and partying and they just poured love into the night.”

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Taka is played by Kelvin Harrison Jr. and young Sarabi is voiced by Tiffany Boone.

While Beyonce and Jay-Z’s daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, Kiara, King Simba’s daughter, speaks.

Other voices include Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Kagiso Lediga as young Rafiki and Preston Nyman as young Zazu.

To make the film a flashback, the voices from 2019 briefly return – Donald Glover, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, John Kani, John Oliver, Seth Rogan and Billy Eichner.

Is James Earl Jones in Mufasa: The Lion King?

The death of James Earl Jones, considered a father figure by many, was a sad day for film fans around the world.

The Star Wars actor originated the strong, stoic voice of Mufasa in the 1994 animated film and reprized the role for the 2019 live-action remake.

Jenkins decided to dedicate the entire film to the star, and his voice briefly appears at the beginning of the new film as a sort of “voice of God.”

Opening to a black screen, you’ll hear Jones’ voice giving Simba his advice: “Look at the stars.” The great kings of the past look down on us from these stars. So when you feel alone, remember that these kings will always be there to guide you. And I will do it too.

Is it safe for children to watch Mufasa: The Lion King?

The film has received a PG rating in the UK, making it safe to watch for everyone.

However, much like the original, it’s worth approaching with caution as there are one or two scenes that may be a bit frightening and/or emotional for younger viewers.

Who did the music for Mufasa: The Lion King?

The musical man of the moment – ​​Lin-Manuel Miranda – is responsible for the soundtrack to Mufasa: The Lion King.

Jenkins says watching him work taught him a lot as a creative person.

“Usually in a musical the songs come first and the film revolves around them. But in this case, Lin was so busy directing Tick Tick Boom and working on Encanto, so we started before he came in and it was really wonderful.” See him looking at the script and a “Art diagnoses where songs could highlight the narrative rather than just distract from it,” says Jenkins.

“And the song “I Always Wanted A Brother” was a great example. Lin watched a very early cartoon and immediately recognized that it was the song (for that section), and it’s one of my favorite bits in the film.”

Mufasa: The Lion King is now in cinemas.