Mufasa

Now in Theaters

A prequel to stun any viewer, Disney’s “Mufasa” is a must-see film. Taking place long before the events of “The Lion King,” the new film follows Mufasa and his story of becoming king of the Pride Lands. The movie was released December 20, 2024, and it has since become one of the highest grossing musical films of all time. The music was written by Lin Manuel Miranda which has already created quite the stir with songs such as “I Always Wanted A Brother” and “Brother Betrayed.”

The film takes on an interesting approach, beginning with Rafiki as narrator. He tells the story to Simba’s daughter, Kiara, with Pumbaa and Timon listening in. Rafiki starts the tale, focusing on Mufasa and his blood parents in an unknown land that is fraught with drought and famine. The young cub gets separated from his family and finds himself in a strange new place. Alone and afraid, a young lion cub just about his age rescues him from the water. This cub’s name is Taka (Scar) who convinces his father to take on poor Mufasa. 

Things take off from there with some amusing interjections from Pumbaa and Timon. As the story progresses a villain is introduced, sending the two lions to flee for their lives in search of Milele. Other characters are added such as Zazu and Sarabi, resulting in a love triangle. After a dramatic origin story for Scar, Mufasa reigns as the hero of the tale and over Milele — The Pride Lands.

Overall, the story was entertaining and the musical numbers were engaging. What most viewers are surprised about is that Mufasa and Scar are no longer blood brothers in this rendition. Additionally, Ahadi, their father who was king of the Pride Lands before Mufasa took over, is not in the film at all. The new version shows the two as adopted brothers instead of being related by blood. Therefore, viewers should think of these two versions as different universes, as there have been many changes and comparing them would be futile. 

Another point worth mentioning is that the animation of the lions is significantly better than 2019’s “The Lion King.” The characters show more emotions. It is evident that more intention was put into how the animals not only looked visually but expressed their emotions so that even children could understand the feelings being portrayed. 

The new film is entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable. Though changes have been made from the original films, “Mufasa” is a movie worth seeing. It is expected to be released on Disney+ in March or April, so keep your eyes open! 

by Adelle Hall