Disney revealed an extended look at its upcoming film, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” on Friday night at D23.
Before that, the singers took the stage and performed a rendition of the film's opening song before director Barry Jenkins appeared. “Like all of you, 'The Lion King' left an indelible mark on me,” Jenkins said. “Listening to the music and feeling all the emotions as the story unfolded, a father giving his son a legacy, pride being rebuilt, a young lion rising to his destiny. Telling his story is an absolute honor.”
Jenkins also announced that Lin-Manuel Miranda would compose original songs for the film. Miranda received a standing ovation when he joined Jenkins to preview the song “I Always Wanted a Brother.”
Set before the events of the 2019 live-action reimagining of “The Lion King,” directed by Jenkins, “Mufasa” focuses on the early years of the eventual ruler of Pride Rock, as well as his menacing younger brother, Scar. Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. lead the voice cast as a younger version of Mufasa (voiced by James Earl Jones in the 1994 film and 2019 remake) and Scar (voiced by Jeremy Irons in the 1994 version and Chiwetel Ejiofor in the 2019 remake). Beyoncé Knowles-Carter returns as the voice of Nala; her daughter Blue Ivy Carter will play Kiara, the daughter of King Samba and Queen Nala.
A new trailer also shows young Mufasa and his brother Scar, as their relationship turns from brothers to enemies.
The new cast includes Tiffany Boone as Sarabi; Kagiso Lediga as young Rafiki; Preston Nyman as Zazu; Mads Mikkelsen as Kyros, a formidable lion with big plans for his pride; Thandiwe Newton as Taka's mother, Ishi; Lennie James as Taka's father, Obasi; Anika Noni Rose as Mufasa's mother, Avia; and Keith David as Mufasa's father, Masego.
“Mufasa” reunites Jenkins with his favorite team of craftsmen, including composer Nicholas Brittle, editor Joey McMillon and cinematographer James Laxton.
The 2019 remake, directed by Jon Favreau, grossed a staggering $1.66 billion worldwide, and was one of seven Disney films to cross the $1 billion mark that year.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is scheduled to hit theaters on December 20.
Watch the new trailer below.
