Among the trailers, teasers, and announcements at Disney's D23 Expo, the new Mufasa: The Lion King trailer was also unveiled.
The upcoming film will be a prequel to the 2019 live-action remake of the animated film The Lion King. The film will revolve around the titular character and how he rose to be the king of his pack.
“Experience the epic story of how an orphan became a King. Mufasa: The Lion King, only in theatres December 20,” Disney wrote on social media, sharing the two-minute-34-second long trailer which offers a glimpse into the evolving relationship between young Mufasa and Scar as they transition from brothers to adversaries.
The trailer hints at a deeper exploration of Mufasa's relationship with his brother, Scar (formerly Taka). As an orphaned cub, Mufasa finds refuge in Taka's pride but faces initial rejection. However, a strong bond eventually forms between the two, solidifying their brotherhood.
While Aaron Pierre will lend his voice for the younger version of Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr will voice for Scar. Others part of the cast include Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, and John Kani as Pumbaa, Timon and Rafiki respectively.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reprises her role as Nala, while her daughter Blue Ivy Carter will voice Kiara, the daughter of King Simba and Queen Nala. We also have new cast members joining the tribe which includes Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki, Preston Nyman as Zazu, Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, 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.
Jeff Nathanson, the screenwriter who penned the 2019 screenplay for the previous computer-generated adaptation of The Lion King, is the scriptwriter for Mufasa: The Lion King as well. Barry Jenkins is the director of the film which will have original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
The film is all set for release in theatres on December 20 this year.