In Partnership with Disney
Before he became the lion who ruled over everything the light touches, Mufasa was a cub just like Simba, trying to find his place in the world. Yet despite being one of the most mourned animated characters in cinematic history, we don’t know much about his story.
Now, in the photorealistic animated film Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, we’re taken back to the beginning of Mufasa’s life. The film is deeply nostalgic for anyone who grew up with the 1994 original, while also bringing a new, beautiful visual realism for today’s kids. While The Lion King was always a tale of destiny and leadership, Mufasa: The Lion King explores Mufasa’s untold path to power before he takes the crown.
Narrated by lovable mandrill Rafiki as a story for Simba and Nala’s daughter, Kiara, the film introduces Mufasa at his most vulnerable. Alone and without a home, he meets a young Scar (whose birth name is revealed as Taka), a lion born into royalty. Their connection quickly forms the heart of the story, built on survival, brotherhood, rivalry and ultimate betrayal.
Director Barry Jenkins brings his signature cinematic aesthetic throughout the animation, with sweeping landscapes, original music, and character-driven moments that add depth to the franchise. “Hearing the music and feeling every emotion as the story unfolded, a father bestowing a legacy upon his son, a pride being built anew, and a young lion rising to his destiny. Telling his story is an absolute honour,” Jenkins shared at a release event in August 2024.
Yet, for all its beauty, the film doesn’t stray from the humor and charm fans expect. Timon and Pumbaa return as the lions’ sidekicks, while Rafiki and Zazu bring nostalgia and anchor the story within the beloved world of The Lion King.
Music plays a defining role, as it always has in this franchise. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s contributions to the soundtrack introduce fresh songs while respecting the legacy of past classics. Songs like “We Go Together” and “I Always Wanted a Brother” carry the film, and the overall soundtrack is memorable, heartfelt, and bound to be sung for years to come.
Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. voice the younger version of Mufasa, alongside Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Scar, Beyoncé as Nala and her daughter, Blue Ivy, as Kiara. Plus, Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen take on the roles of Timon and Pumbaa.
Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King was released in Australian cinemas in December 2024, and now you can be the first to watch it at home on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video Store, Google TV, Fetch, Foxtel Store or Microsoft Store. Select platforms also unlock access to exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-scenes interviews and deleted scenes. These extras offer an inside look at how the filmmakers expanded on the legend while keeping the spirit of the original.
Rather than retelling a familiar story, Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King opens an entirely new one. It shines a light on characters who have long existed but have never been fully understood. The origin of a king has never been told like this before.
Be the first to watch at home. Buy or rent Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King now.
