Disney revealed a new look at the upcoming feature in The Lion King universe. Mufasa, a prequel of sorts to Disney’s 2019 live-action Lion King, dropped its first official teaser today. Check it out below.
The film actually acts as a sort of sequel and prequel to The Lion King; it takes place after the events of that film, but focuses on the story of the late Mufasa told in flashbacks. In the present, the baboon Rafiki tells Mufasa’s story to his granddaughter, Kiara.
Here’s the official synopsis as provided by the trailer description:
Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.
The teaser drop also revealed new casting information; Blue Ivy Carter will voice Kiara. Carter’s real-life mother Beyoncé will reprise her role as Nala.
Mufasa will also feature several other actors reprising their voice roles from 2019’s Lion King, including Donald Glover as Simba, Seth Rogen as Timon, and Billy Eichner as Pumbaa. Aaron Pierre will voice Mufasa. Kelvin Harrison Jr., Mads Mikkelsen, and Thandiwe Newton will also voice characters in the movie.
The feature comes from Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins (Moonlight). Lin-Manuel Miranda will compose the film’s original soundtrack.
Mufasa premieres in theaters December 20. Until then, check back to THS for more Disney updates.
