‘The Lion King 2’: Director Teases Mufasa and Scar’s Origin Story
The Lion King’s original theatrical release in 1994 was a high success followed by numerous adaptation in form of musicals, books, spinoffs and videogames. Jon Favreau directed the CGI remake in 2019, but it was not well received and was instead criticized for its lack of originality and expressiveness the original animation was so praised for.
Now fans have yet another version of the story to look forward to as in 2020, renewed director Barry Jenkins announced that he is making a prequel to The Lion King.
The Lion King 2 will be a prequel to Favreau’s 2019 remake and it will focus on a young Mufasa and his relationship with his brother Scar. The movie will offer a backstory to their famous rivalry and expose the reasons for the two brothers becoming such enemies.
Jenkins teased some new details on the story in the recent interview for Variety, described his personal connection with the characters and expressed he feels no pressure about making the movie, as “it fits so well” with everything else he has done so far.
“I grew up with these characters; they mean so much to me. I think the work that Jeff Nathanson, the writer, did and going back into really helping children, and anyone who ever loved this property understands what it takes. Kings aren’t just born; they aren’t just made. They have to become who they are through a series of events that a lot of people can relate to. So, I think from that standpoint; it fits very well with everything else I’ve done. So, I feel no pressure; I just want to do a good job.“
Alongside the relationship between Mufasa and Taka (the younger version of Scar), Jenkins will address the process of Taka transforming into his villainous persona and ultimately becoming a hateful, power-thirsty lion we got to meet him as.
Jenkins has a few successful adaptations in his career and is very confident about the upcoming prequel – making disappointed fans finally a bit hopeful of what the future holds for their favorite franchise.
The film is scheduled to be released on July 22, 2022.
