‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Now in PH Cinemas

‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Now in PH Cinemas

Mufasa: The Lion King, a live-action prequel to Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King, hits Philippine cinemas today, two days ahead of its U.S. release. Featuring original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, alongside additional music and performances by Lebo M, the film delves into the remarkable journey of how the beloved king of the Pride Lands rose to greatness.

The film’s voice cast includes both new and familiar talents from the first live-action remake directed by Jon Favreau. Aaron Pierre voices Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr. takes on Taka, and Tiffany Boone portrays Sarabi. Joining them are Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki, Preston Nyman as Zazu, Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Eshe (Taka’s mother), Lennie James as Obasi (Taka’s father), Anika Noni Rose as Afia (Mufasa’s mother), and Keith David as Masego (Mufasa’s father). John Kani reprises his role as Rafiki, while Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner return as Pumbaa and Timon, respectively. The cast also introduces Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter once again as Nala.

Additional voices include Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somolu, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, and Dominique Jennings.

The story, told through Rafiki’s narration to young Kiara, unfolds in flashbacks. It recounts Mufasa’s early life as an orphaned cub, lost and vulnerable until a chance encounter with Taka, the heir to a royal lineage. This meeting sparks an epic journey with an unlikely group of companions striving to fulfill their destinies. Their bonds are tested as they face a formidable and dangerous enemy.

Directed by Barry Jenkins, Mufasa: The Lion King combines live-action filmmaking techniques with photorealistic CGI. The film is produced by Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak, with Peter Tobyansen serving as executive producer.

The official soundtrack is available to stream below.