The Lion King’ trailer exhibits Mufasa and Scar’s brotherhood

Earlier than they have been kings of the Delight Lands, they have been Taka and Mufasa. 

The unlikely brotherhood between the pair of legendary lions takes middle stage within the official trailer for Disney’s photorealistic Lion King prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King. Advised via a collection of flashbacks, the movie follows the origin story of orphaned cub Mufasa (Braelyn Rankins) after he’s saved by younger prince Taka (Theo Somolu), higher referred to as Scar. 

“Lengthy earlier than they turned legends, Mufasa and the prince who would come to be referred to as Scar turned brothers,” Rafiki (John Kani) tells Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter), the daughter of Simba (Donald Glover) and Nala (Beyoncé), within the clip.

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Because the pair get older, they discover themselves combating for his or her lives as they go toe-to-toe towards a rival pack of lions that seem like making a declare for the throne. The clip additionally options highlight appearances from Lion King fan favorites like Rafiki, Timon (Billy Eichner), Pumbaa (Seth Rogen), and Zazu (John Oliver).  

The trailer was first unveiled by director Barry Jenkins on the studio’s D23 fan occasion in Anaheim, Calif., on Friday. “Listening to the music and listening to each emotion because the story unfolded… A younger lion rising to fulfill his future,” the filmmaker defined. “Telling Mufasa’s backstory [is an honor].” 

Lion King followers in attendance additionally obtained to listen to an authentic music from the upcoming movie— titled “I All the time Wished a Brother” — by award-winning songwriter, Lin-Manuel Miranda. 

“Truthfully, when Barry despatched me the screenplay I used to be in the course of writing Encanto… you assume you understand Mufasa, you assume you understand Scar, however you haven’t any concept,” Miranda stated on the occasion. “I am simply thrilled to be right here and supporting the work. I may discuss these songs all day.”

Jenkins additionally welcomed the movie’s forged — together with Rogen, Eichner, Somolu, Rankins, Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Anika Noni Rose — to the stage as a part of the festivities. They concluded the night with a efficiency by Lebo M. of the Lion King music “Nants’ Ingonyama,” in addition to a brand new observe, “Ngomso.”

Mufasa: The Lion King roars into theaters on Dec. 20, 2024. Watch the trailer above.

—Extra reporting by Ashley Boucher