Disney’s prequel to The Lion King, directed by Barry Jenkins, improves upon its predecessor in terms of animation. However, the story remains unessential and relies on familiar formulas. The film focuses on the backstories of Mufasa and Scar, exploring their complicated relationships and the events that led to the original story.
The movie begins with young Mufasa’s parents telling him about a utopian land called Milele, where he eventually grows up in a territory inhabited by English-accented lions. He meets his best friend Taka, who becomes like an adopted brother, but their bond is complicated due to their differing backgrounds. The story takes a turn with the arrival of Kiros, a ruthless white lion who sets off a chain reaction of events that brings Mufasa and Taka on the run.
Throughout the film, Jenkins’ camera movements create a visually appealing experience, using stylized flourishes and slo-mo sequences to convey mood and character. The musical numbers, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, are distinct but lackluster. While the animation has improved over its predecessor, it still faces limitations due to realism conventions.
Ultimately, Mufasa: The Lion King is compromised by studio formulas, relying on familiar messages about outsiders and family. Despite this, Barry Jenkins’ unique sensibility brings a more vibrant and engaging experience to the film. The result is an improvement over Favreau’s version, but it still falls short of being the best possible use of Jenkins’ talent.
Release Date: December 20, 2024
Source: https://www.avclub.com/mufasa-the-lion-king-review