Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay declared, '’Mufasa: The Lion King’ is the ideal prequel. It’s beautifully crafted. The songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Nicholas Britell’s score are absolutely divine – pure joy for the ears.” ComicBook.com’s Chris Killian noted, “I wasn’t specifically asking for a ‘Lion King’ prequel, but the animation is phenomenal, the songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda are catchy, and the vocal performances make ‘Mufasa’ – dare I say – even better than the 2019 rendition of ‘The Lion King.’'
Cinefied film critic Dempsey Pillot commented, 'I’m pleased to say ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ is really good! What else would you expect from Barry Jenkins? It’s a biblical exploration of destiny cleverly presented as an origin story for Mufasa and Scar. The film is entertaining, visually stunning, and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s music certainly impresses!”
Film Independent writer Dana Abercrombie lauded the film as 'a story that deserves to be told, prompting reflection on the nature of destiny. Expertly crafted and written, it enhances the ‘Lion King’ franchise by providing greater depth to characters we thought we knew. The visual effects are astounding.' Directed by Barry Jenkins ('Moonlight'), 'Mufasa' delves into the early years of the future ruler of Pride Rock, revealing how he and Scar (whose real name is Taka) transform from friends to adversaries.
Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. lend their voices to the younger versions of Mufasa and Scar, respectively. Other new voices include Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, the daughter of Simba (Donald Glover) and Nala (Beyoncé Knowles-Carter); Tiffany Boone as Sarabi; Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki; Preston Nyman as Zazu; Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, a powerful lion with ambitious plans for his pride; Thandiwe Newton as Taka’s mother, Eshe; Lennie James as Taka’s father, Obasi; Anika Noni Rose as Mufasa’s mother, Afia; and Keith David as Mufasa’s father, Masego. Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reprise their roles from the “The Lion King” remake. The film's songs are penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who produced alongside Mark Mancina, with additional music and performances from Lebo M.
'Mufasa' is set to hit theaters on December 20.
