Wise old mandrill Rafiki (John Kani) imparts the story of young Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) to Simba's daughter Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter), revealing how he came to be a part of the Lion King's saga. With this prequel to the 2019 photoreal-ish remake of 1994 Disney's alpha-hit "The Lion King", director Barry Jenkins, renowned for his "Moonlight" Oscar win, has ventured into the realm of cool indie auteurs aiming for a splash in the studio-controlled mainstream. However, Jenkins seems an unconventional choice for this type of movie. A director known for depicting raw, emotional humanity and finding beauty in real, location-based settings now working on an entirely computer-manufactured film about singing animals? It's no surprise that he almost turned down the role of Mufasa without even reading the script.

Uncover the Origins of the Lion King in a Stunning Prequel

The Separation and Adoption

During a raging flash-flood, lion cub Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) is torn from his parents and reluctantly taken in by another pride. He finds an adoptive brother in the pride's prince, Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr). Unlike Taka, Mufasa must earn his place through adversity and feminine perceptiveness. This forms the core of the story and showcases Jenkins' unique touch. 1: The flash-flood scene is a powerful moment that sets the stage for Mufasa's journey. The chaos and desperation are palpable as he is separated from his family. The new pride he joins is a world of its own, with its own set of challenges and dynamics. Mufasa's determination to fit in and earn his place is evident from the start. 2: The relationship between Mufasa and Taka is a complex one. They start as strangers but gradually grow to care for each other. Taka's initial resentment towards Mufasa gives way to a bond that will be tested in the coming days. This aspect of the story adds depth and emotion to the narrative.

The Assault and Tensions

After an assault on Taka's pride by white-furred outsiders, whose overlord is another Mads Mikkelsen villain, the story progresses from point A to point B. There is a hint of romantic tension as both brothers fancy plucky lioness Sarabi (voiced by Tiffany Boone). The addition of a few pleasant Lin-Manuel Miranda songs adds some charm to the proceedings, although the choreography could have been more inventive. 1: The assault on Taka's pride is a turning point in the story. It brings out the courage and strength of the characters as they face a common enemy. The presence of the Mads Mikkelsen villain adds an air of mystery and danger to the story. 2: The romantic tension between Mufasa and Taka with Sarabi adds a layer of complexity to the characters. It shows their different sides and desires, making them more relatable. The songs, while pleasant, don't quite elevate the story to the next level.

The Visuals and Realism

Despite all the photoreal fangs and claws, there is only one notable scratch amid the numerous big-cat conflicts. All the animals remain immaculate, without a single patch of matted fur. This contrast with the ultra-realist aesthetic jars and makes one long for a bolder, more artful approach. 1: The visual effects in the film are impressive, but the lack of any real dirt or mess on the animals is a missed opportunity. It takes away from the authenticity of the world and makes it feel a bit too clean. 2: The continued uncanniness of seeing "real" beasts sing and talk also detracts from the overall experience. It's a reminder that this is a computer-generated world, and it doesn't quite feel natural. However, the movie does manage to engage younger audience members with its inoffensive and well-meaning adventure.Barry Jenkins' verve only faintly shines through in this origin story that is mildly entertaining, not wildly so. It's a story that has its moments but could have been more personalized and bold.