In a cinematic landscape dominated by sequels, 2024 emerges as a year of unprecedented commercial vigor for follow-ups. Among the illustrious top fourteen highest-grossing titles, only one—Wicked, a prequel—breaks the chain. This thriving marketplace for revisiting beloved tales isn’t merely a box office bonanza; artistically, several sequels have risen to remarkable heights. Notable entries such as Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Twisters, and Alien: Romulus have not only upheld their predecessors’ legacies but have dazzled audiences with fresh narratives. And now, at the forefront of this expansion stands Mufasa, a project that promises to amplify the discourse.
Walt Disney, ever the architect of imagination, has lured Lin-Manuel Miranda into this vibrant tapestry with six original songs that pulse with life. In a move that sparks intrigue, they recruited Barry Jenkins to direct, a choice that veers wildly from the familiar stylings of Jon Favreau, the original helm. Jenkins, celebrated for his poignant work in Moonlight, juxtaposes Favreau’s mainstream ventures such as Elf and Iron Man, creating a fascinating dichotomy.
Mufasa unfolds with an artistry that could only be described as breathtaking—a masterclass in computer animation. The evocative African vistas serve as backdrop to an adventure that captures the essence of nature’s splendor in an explosion of color and movement. From the heart-stopping stampedes of elephants to nail-biting escapes from torrential floods, this film has the audacity to evoke astonishment. Coupled with Dave Metzger’s stirring score and top-notch sound design, the piece resonates on myriad emotional frequencies.
Dedicated to the late James Earl Jones, whose voice embodied Mufasa’s gravity, this origin story blossoms with rich backstory. Mufasa, in his adulthood, is perfectly channeled by Aaron Pierre, whose star continues to ascend. Narrated by the wise mandrill Rafiki (the ever-reliable John Kani), the plot intertwines the destinies of Mufasa and his cub Kiara, set against a backdrop that could bewilder younger viewers. Yet, the sheer visual splendor and pulse-pounding animation promise to enthrall the family audience. At times, the intensity could prove overwhelming, particularly for more sensitive viewers, but the comic timing of characters like Pumbaa (voiced by Seth Rogen) and Timon (portrayed by Billy Eichner) provides a delightful counterbalance.
Unlike the original Lion King, which drew heavily from Hamlet, Mufasa leans into the vibes of classic Westerns, with shades of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The narrative centers on the camaraderie between Mufasa and Taka (played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.), both fugitives launching into an epic quest fraught with peril. The dynamic between the two is further complicated by the presence of Sarabi (wonderfully brought to life by Tiffany Boone), echoing classic tensions of love and rivalry.
Rafiki’s wisdom pings throughout the film with humorous profundity, dispensing life lessons with the whimsicality of a sage. When questioned about his closed eyes, he cryptically replies, “my eyes are open – it’s my lids that are closed.” This bit of humor intertwines beautifully with Miranda’s jubilant musical contributions, rounding out a prequel/sequel hybrid that proudly asserts its narrative worth.
JAMES CAMERON-WILSON
Voices Include: Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., John Kani, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Tiffany Boone, Donald Glover, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Anika Noni Rose, Blue Ivy Carter, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Keith David, Preston Nyman, Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somolu.
Directed by: Barry Jenkins
Produced by: Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak
Screenplay by: Jeff Nathanson
Photography by: James Laxton
Production Design by: Mark Friedberg
Edited by: Joi McMillon
Music by: Dave Metzger
Songs by: Lin-Manuel Miranda
Sound Design by: Harry Cohen, Jason W. Jennings, Paula Fairfield, and Luke Gibleon.
Walt Disney Pictures – Walt Disney Studios
Running Time: 119 mins.
Release: December 20, 2024
Certification: PG
