MUFASA 2024 | MOVIE REVIEW

Summary

The video discusses the prequel to Disney's 2019 'The Lion King,' which delves into the origin story of Mufasa. Directed by Barry Jenkins, it explores Mufasa’s childhood and his relationship with Taka, later known as Scar. The narrative highlights their evolving bond, rivalry, and the complexities leading to their eventual feud. While the film excels in visual effects, voice acting, and exploring Mufasa’s backstory, some viewers find its plot and conclusion lacking complexity. The reviewer appreciates the effort to expand the world of 'The Lion King' but expresses mixed feelings about its execution and the comedic moments involving Timon and Pumbaa.

Takeaways

• 😀 The movie *Mufasa: The Lion King* is a prequel to the 2019 live-action version, focusing on Mufasa’s childhood and rise to become king.
• 😀 The plot centers on Mufasa’s relationship with Taka (who becomes Scar) and explores their rivalry, which begins in their early years and leads to conflict later on.
• 😀 The film presents new characters and landscapes, expanding the *Lion King* universe while staying faithful to its roots.
• 😀 Visually, the movie is considered an improvement over the 2019 live-action, with more expressive animal faces and dynamic animations.
• 😀 The cinematography is highly praised, with stunning shots, particularly during Mufasa and Taka’s adventures, making the landscapes feel alive.
• 😀 The voice cast, including Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr., effectively portrays the bond between young Mufasa and Taka.
• 😀 The return of familiar voices, such as Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, and Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, adds continuity to the story.
• 😀 Some critics felt the comedic moments from Timon and Pumba were excessive and disrupted the film’s emotional flow.
• 😀 The movie’s ending felt rushed, with the build-up of tension in the earlier parts of the story not fully carried through to a satisfying conclusion.
• 😀 For long-time fans of the *Lion King* franchise, the film’s plot may feel simplified, diminishing the emotional impact compared to the 1994 animated original.
• 😀 Despite its strengths, *Mufasa: The Lion King* is considered by some as a movie that would have had a bigger emotional impact if released before the 2019 adaptation.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the movie 'Mufasa: The Lion King'?

The movie focuses on the origin story of Mufasa, detailing his childhood, the relationship with his brother Taka (later known as Scar), and how he eventually becomes the King of the Pride Lands.

Who is directing the film, and what is his previous notable work?

The film is directed by Barry Jenkins, who previously directed the 2017 Oscar-winning film 'Moonlight'.

How does the movie relate to the 2019 live-action version of 'The Lion King'?

The movie serves as a prequel to the 2019 live-action 'The Lion King', exploring Mufasa's backstory and his early years, which were not fully explored in the original film.

What are the main themes explored in the relationship between Mufasa and Taka?

The movie delves into themes of brotherhood, rivalry, betrayal, and the eventual fight for power as Mufasa and Taka’s friendship turns into enmity.

Who are some of the notable voice actors in the film?

Notable voice actors include Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. as young Mufasa and Taka, with Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, and Blue Ivy Carter voicing Kiara. Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen return as Timon and Pumbaa.

What improvements were made in the visual effects compared to the 2019 film?

The visual effects in 'Mufasa: The Lion King' are praised for giving the animals more distinct facial expressions and clearer lip movements during dialogue, making the characters feel more alive and emotionally expressive compared to the 2019 film.

What is the significance of the character 'Milele' in the plot?

Milele is a mythological place referred to in the story, said to be a paradise or sanctuary. Mufasa and Taka are sent to find it, symbolizing their journey and escape from their troubles.

What critique does the review offer regarding the film's third act?

The third act of the film is criticized for feeling rushed and lacking complexity, with the resolution of the conflict between Mufasa and Taka being simplified, which undermines the emotional build-up of the earlier parts of the story.

How does the film’s approach to humor compare to the original 'The Lion King'?

The humor in 'Mufasa: The Lion King', particularly through Timon and Pumbaa, is seen as excessive and sometimes mis-timed, with some moments failing to land as intended. This contrasts with the original film, where their humor was more balanced and fitting.

What impact does the prequel have on the original 'The Lion King' story for long-time fans?

While the prequel offers a fresh perspective on Mufasa’s origins, long-time fans of the original 'The Lion King' might feel that the movie diminishes some of the emotional depth of the original story, especially with its simplified plot and rushed resolution.