Mufasa: The Lion King
A Backstory with Added Depth
Mufasa: The Lion King is the origin story for the main Lion King characters that we love and grew up with. It is a story that may not have been asked for, but with its addition does not take away from the animated films The Lion King and The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride released 1994 and 1998. Personally, I was able to watch the film twice in theaters and for me, it made Scar’s betrayal even heavier now knowing the relationship that originated between Scar and Mufasa. Directed by Barry Jenkins, one of the biggest issues viewers may have had when introduced to ‘Mufasa’ is the thought of Scar getting a redemption story. I can proudly say that it does no such thing.
Viewers know Scar as a murderous mean uncle. Taka is introduced as a cub next in line for the throne. Rewatching the animated story of Scar, some may have wondered if he had also been like that, was there something that happened to him that made him so hateful or even if Mufasa did something to him to make him hate him so. Taka’s character arc from a cub to, who we now know as Scar, does include three events that take place that essentially made him the biggest Disney villains in history. Each event that occurred can be understood a few different ways, but it is an important reminder that Scar was responsible for his actions. Every. Single. One. Of. Them.
This is not his redemption story; this is his past.
The Return of Lin Manuel Miranda
Lin Manuel Miranda, the genius behind the musical stylings of Hamilton, In the Heights, Moana, Tick, Tick, Boom! and The Little Mermaid (live action) returned to write the music for Mufasa: The Lion King. Like Hans Zimmerman and Alan Menken, Miranda has a unique sound that is distinctly him when his pen is put to paper. His return is important to viewers since Moana 2, released just last month did not include Lin Manuel Miranda as a song writer like the first installment did and the difference in the music was heard.
What is Next for Disney Live Action Films?
Now while the ending does set up the perfect transition to a live action version of The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride as to date, there has been no announcement that Disney is moving forward with a script or production. There is a live action Snow White scheduled to be released on March 21st, 2025, but there have not been any whispers about moving forward with the Lion King series.
Now while there have not been any whispers, keep in mind that other than Simba’s Pride, there is also The Lion King 1 ½ released in 2004 that could be added to the live action series as well.
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