The live-action film ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ by Barry Jenkins has revealed its first look. The prequel to the 2019 blockbuster hit, ‘The Lion King’, shared the first glimpse of Mufasa on a rock on Thursday, over two years since the title poster was released. The film aims to explore the backstory of Mufasa and his relationship with his brother, Scar.
Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. are the voices of Mufasa and Scar, respectively. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Jeremy Irons will also provide supporting roles to unidentified characters. Billy Eichner will voice Timon, the meerkat, and John Kani will lend his voice for Rafiki, the baboon. Seth Rogen will voice Pumbaa, the warthog.
The film is a notable addition to the ‘The Lion King’ franchise, which is one of the most iconic and well-received animated movies, grossing over $960 million. The film arrives five years after the 2019 live-action remake, which, despite mixed reviews, grossed over $1 billion worldwide.
Attendees at D23 Expo 2022 got a sneak peek of the film, showcasing Mufasa’s early life as an orphaned cub in a harsh desert before his journey to Pride Rock. ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ marks Jenkins’ third directorial venture after ‘Moonlight’ and ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and is set to release on December 20.
