Mufasa teases Action, Adventure, and Toothy Grins

MufasaSimba’s title suggests it’s the beginning, going back to explore what Simba’s father was up to before directing his young son. The King is the King. And that’s going to be a big part of it—but the CGI-realistic animated musical for Barry Jenkins’ picture also has a frame story, set during Simba’s reign, when an elderly Rafiki tells Mufasa’s story to Simba’s daughter, Kiara. (That’s how Disney made sure fan favorites Timon and Pumbaa would have starring roles.) MufasaAs the release inches toward the “one month left” mark, Disney is ramping up the promo with a new feature and colorful character posters.

First, we get a glimpse inside Jenkins’ creative process for “Mufasa: The Lion King—Visionary Storyteller,” which features the Oscar-winning director hard at work on his follow-up to Disney’s 2019 blockbuster. The King is the Kingitself a remake of the studio’s 1994 animated classic. “Oh my god, how lucky Disney is,” said Rafiki actor John Kani, speaking of Jenkins’ talent, and we agree.

The sentiments are shared by everyone in the video, from star Aaron Pierre to lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda, and beyond. (It’s fitting, as an excited Jenkins calls his co-workers “the characters of my dreams.”) Also, there are all kinds of sweeping images of animals (some friendlier than others) running and jumping through the beautiful scenery. Check it out!

Disney also shared new posters that you should expect to start seeing posted soon. From top left, Rafiki and Zazu; Young Mufasa; lion brothers Mufasa and Taka (later known as Scar); Kiara; and Timon and Pumbaa.

Mufasa: King King has an ensemble cast—including many Jon Favreau reprises. The King is the King. Aaron Pierre (recently cast in DC Lights series) stars as Mufasa, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka, John Kani (Black Panther‘s T’Chaka) as Rafiki, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Donald Glover as Simba, Mads Mikkelson as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Eshe, Lennie James as Obasi, Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, Preston Nyman as Zazu, Anika Noni Rose (Princess and Chat) as Afia, and Keith David as Masego.

Mufasa: King King will be in theaters on December 20.

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