Writer and director Barry Jenkins has made a name for himself as a fervently dedicated filmmaker through his breathtaking, character-driven dramas, such as the San Francisco romance *Medicine for Melancholy*, the Academy Award-winning coming-of-age landmark *Moonlight*, and the poignant adaptation of James Baldwin’s *If Beale Street Could Talk*. With such an impressive portfolio, it’s easy to see Jenkins as the perfect choice to inject fresh energy into Disney’s live-action remakes, especially following the uninspired CGI version of *The Lion King* in 2019. But does Jenkins effectively breathe new life into the franchise with *Mufasa: The Lion King*? The situation is nuanced.

### *Mufasa: The Lion King* encounters obstacles that hinder Jenkins’ imagination.

This prequel presents Jenkins with what may be his most formidable task to date. Absent are the expressive human features and emotional resonance that his lens has expertly captured in previous projects. The dialogue is not of his own crafting, nor does it adapt from a literary icon like James Baldwin. Instead, it is scripted by Jeffrey D. Nathanson, whose work includes titles such as *Speed 2: Cruise Control*, *Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull*, and the 2019 *Lion King* remake. The lively, hand-drawn visuals and vibrant colors of the 1994 original have been usurped by a photorealistic style that strips the film of its visual appeal. Moreover, being a prequel, the narrative is constrained by the necessity to follow established lore, leaving little scope for Jenkins’ artistic expression.

### A prequel brimming with backstories nobody wanted.

Have you ever pondered how Mufasa first crossed paths with Rafiki? Or why Zazu gives morning updates? Or even the origin of Rafiki’s famous walking stick? If these questions haven’t crossed your mind, you’re in good company. Yet, *Mufasa: The Lion King* feels compelled to address these queries, often in ways that seem contrived and superfluous. While the film primarily centers on Mufasa’s ascent to prominence, it frequently forces in extra lore and familiar figures just to appease fans.

The plot kicks off with an adult Simba (voiced by Donald Glover) entrusting his cub, Kiara (voiced by Blue Ivy Carter), to the care of Timon and Pumbaa (Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen). The duo swiftly hands off the storytelling to Rafiki (John Kani), who narrates Mufasa’s backstory. Similar to *The Princess Bride*, the storyline gets interrupted by Kiara’s inquiries and Timon and Pumbaa’s humorous comments, including fart jokes and even a self-referential nod to *The Lion King* Broadway show (Timon is upset about being depicted as a puppet).

As Rafiki’s story unfolds, we discover that a young Mufasa was swept away from his homeland by a sudden flood and was saved by Taka, a British-accented cub who yearns for brotherhood. Together, they commit to challenging Taka’s xenophobic father and charting their own course. However, their adventure is complicated by a pride of white-furred lions led by the intimidating Kiros (voiced by Mads Mikkelsen). The tale inevitably leads to one of the most foreseeable twists in Disney lore, with well-known characters making appearances throughout.

### An impressive cast and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s music lift the film—somewhat.

To his credit, Jenkins has gathered an exceptional cast. Aaron Pierre (known for *Rebel Ridge*) lends Mufasa his deep voice, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. (*Chevalier*) adds depth to Taka. The supporting lineup features Emmy winner Thandiwe Newton (*Westworld*), BAFTA winner Lennie James (*Save Me*), Anika Noni Rose (the voice of Princess Tiana in *The Princess and the Frog*), and Keith David (Dr. Facilier in *The Princess and the Frog*). Returning from the 2019 version of *Lion King* are Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, and Beyoncé as Nala, who shares a poignant moment with her real-life daughter, Blue Ivy Carter.

The film also boasts new songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda (*Hamilton*, *Moana*, *Encanto*), which introduce joyful elements to an otherwise bleak narrative. However, while the musical numbers are enjoyable, they don’t match the heights of Miranda’s finest works or the legendary songs of Elton John and Tim Rice from the original *Lion King*. Songs like “I Always Wanted a Brother,” a duet between young Mufasa and Taka, capture some youthful vibrancy but lack its charm. Meanwhile, Mikkelsen’s villainous track, “Bye Bye,” fails to measure up to Jeremy Irons’ iconic “Be Prepared.” The highlight is “Tell Me It’s You,” a heartfelt duet featuring Aaron Pierre’s Muf.