Director Barry Jenkins is shedding light on the unique way in which Mufasa: The Lion King pays tribute to the late and great James Earl Jones. The new prequel film, centered around the iconic lion voiced by Jones in the 1994 animated classic, begins with a blank screen as Jones, who passed away at 93 in his New York home on September 9, delivers his Mufasa lines. “Look at the stars,” Jones says in the original Lion King voiceover. “The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars. So whenever you feel alone, just remember that those kings will always be there to guide you, and so will I.” Text then appears onscreen, “In remembrance of James Earl Jones,” before the film commences. Jenkins, at 45 years old, told Entertainment Weekly that although Jones did not record any new voice material for this Mufasa-centric movie, he had contemplated honoring Jones’ work as part of a grand celebration of the original film’s 30th anniversary. Growing up without a father figure, Jenkins believes that for many, this character and that voice are synonymous with the concept of a surrogate father or at least the ideal of a father-son dynamic. He wanted to find a way to pay homage. “I heard his voice,” Jenkins added about the voiceover moment. “It just felt like it was something that we had to do.” Disney was “absolutely on board” with the idea, and Jenkins made a gut choice in deciding to use Jones’ “kings of the past” speech from the original film. In Mufasa: The Lion King, much of the cast from the 2019 Lion King remake reprises their voice roles. Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, and Beyoncé will all return as Simba, Pumbaa, Timon, Rafiki, and Nala respectively, while Blue Ivy Carter makes her feature film debut as Kiara, Nala and Simba’s daughter. In this film, Aaron Pierre from Rebel Ridge portrays a young Mufasa who forms a friendship and brotherly bond with the lion Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr), who later becomes Scar. Mads Mikkelsen and Thandiwe Newton also contribute their voices. Mufasa: The Lion King is set to hit theaters on December 20.

Discover the Heartfelt Tribute in Mufasa: The Lion King

Section 1: The Significance of James Earl Jones' Voice

James Earl Jones' voice as Mufasa in the 1994 animated film holds a special place in the hearts of many. It became a symbol of fatherly guidance and wisdom. For those who grew up without a father figure, his voice represented an idealized father-son dynamic. Jenkins himself, having grown up without a father, understood the profound impact that Jones' performance had. The voiceover moment in Mufasa: The Lion King serves as a powerful reminder of Jones' legacy and his ability to bring a character to life. It is a moment that connects audiences on an emotional level and adds depth to the prequel film.

Section 2: Disney's Support and Jenkins' Decision

Disney's decision to be “absolutely on board” with using Jones' “kings of the past” speech from the original film was a significant one. It shows their respect for Jones and his contribution to the franchise. Jenkins, in making the gut choice to incorporate this speech, demonstrated his commitment to honoring Jones' work. It was not just a matter of paying lip service but a genuine effort to create a meaningful connection between the original film and the prequel. This decision also highlights the importance of legacy and how it can be carried forward in new projects.

Section 3: The Cast Reunions and New Faces

The cast reunions in Mufasa: The Lion King are a highlight of the film. Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, and Beyoncé returning to their respective roles as Simba, Pumbaa, Timon, Rafiki, and Nala add a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. Blue Ivy Carter's debut as Kiara also brings a new generation into the fold. Alongside these familiar voices, the addition of Aaron Pierre as a young Mufasa and Mads Mikkelsen and Thandiwe Newton's contributions add fresh perspectives and depth to the story. It shows the collaborative effort behind the film and how different actors can come together to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.