At tonight’s D23 Brazil, fans were treated to an exclusive first look at Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King as director Barry Jenkins unveiled a stunning new trailer. The trailer transports viewers back to the Pride Lands, providing a fresh look at iconic characters like Mufasa, Scar, Sarabi, Rafiki, and Zazu before they became the legends fans know today. Set to release exclusively in theaters on December 20, 2024, the film promises to delve deep into the story behind one of Disney’s most beloved kings.
A Story of Unlikely Beginnings
The Lion King prequel explores the untold story of the iconic patriarch of Pride Rock, tracing his remarkable journey from a lonely orphan to a revered king. Told through the voice of Rafiki, who narrates the legend to young Kiara, the daughter of Simba and Nala, Mufasa: The Lion King is a tale of resilience, friendship, and destiny. The story unfolds in flashbacks, revealing how a young, lost Mufasa encountered Taka, later known as Scar. Together, they embark on a transformative journey filled with trials, adventures, and moments that will shape the future of the Pride Lands.
“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,” shared director Barry Jenkins.
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Fans can expect to see the evolution of the legendary king’s character and the origins of his relationship with key figures from The Lion King, as well as thrilling new encounters and breathtaking landscapes brought to life through a blend of live-action techniques and photoreal computer-generated imagery.
An All-Star Cast Brings Pride Rock to Life
The cast boasts an impressive roster of talent, with Aaron Pierre voicing the titular character, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka (the young Scar), Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, and Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki. Fans of The Lion King will be delighted to see beloved characters Timon and Pumbaa return, voiced once again by Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner, while Donald Glover and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reprise their roles as Simba and Nala. Young Kiara, Simba’s daughter, will be voiced by Blue Ivy Carter, adding to the rich cast of voices shaping this epic narrative.
Alongside familiar faces, the film introduces new characters like Kiros (Mads Mikkelsen), Eshe (Thandiwe Newton), and Afia (Anika Noni Rose), each adding depth to the Pride Lands’ lore. With Barry Jenkins at the helm and producers Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak bringing the story to life, the film is set to offer a fresh perspective on the world of The Lion King.
A Visual Masterpiece for the Next Generation
Blending live-action techniques with photorealistic CGI, the film immerses viewers in the stunning landscapes of the Pride Lands, capturing the grandeur of the savannah and the warmth of the brothers’ early years. This film builds upon the technological advancements showcased in the 2019 The Lion King, bringing even more detail and nuance to the characters and setting. The trailer and newly released film stills showcase the visual depth that awaits fans, with familiar sights like Pride Rock alongside new, unexplored areas.
Set your calendars for December 20, 2024, when the film hits theaters exclusively. Disney invites fans to experience the incredible journey of a king who rose from humble beginnings and discover the untold story of these fabled brothers and the world they helped shape. The new trailer and film stills are available for download, giving fans a glimpse into this epic story of destiny, family, and courage.
About Mufasa: The Lion King
Release date: December 20, 2024 (USA)
Director: Barry Jenkins
Adapted from: The Lion King
Produced by: Adele Romanski; Mark Ceryak
Distributed by: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Music by: Nicholas Britell (score); Dave Metzger (score); Pharrell Williams (score); Lin-Manuel Miranda (songs)
Cast: Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Tiffany Boone, Billy Eichner, Donald Glover, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Anika Noni Rose, Blue Ivy Carter, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
Synopsis
Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, “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.
What are you most excited to see in Mufasa: The Lion King? Which new character intrigues you the most? Let us know on social media and join the pride as we count down to December 20!
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