As someone who has grown up with Disney’s “The Lion King” as an integral part of my childhood, I must say that the recent release of “Mufasa: The Lion King” has added a whole new layer to the story that I never knew existed. The prequel not only deepens our understanding of Mufasa’s life and leadership but also offers insights into the relationships between the characters.
Contains spoilers for “Mufasa: The Lion King”
2024 will be thirty years since the release of Disney’s iconic animated film “The Lion King,” which captivated audiences worldwide with its memorable characters and catchy tunes, ultimately transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Despite a certain controversy that might be best forgotten by Disney, the story remains deeply cherished by many for its rich and complex narrative structure. The movie deftly blends action, romance, and drama to convey a profound message about family values, personal growth, and confronting one’s past. For those who grew up in the 90s, it serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, providing an opportunity to spot subtleties and foreshadowing that may have been overlooked during initial viewings in youth.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve been captivated by “The Lion King” for over three decades now, and it seems like there isn’t much fresh ground to cover. Yet, this timeless film continues to intrigue us as we delve deeper, discovering layers that were previously hidden. Symbolism runs deep, and the relationships between characters are examined with a magnifying glass, making our latest rewatch an eye-opening experience.
What is The Lion King about?
As a devoted fan, I’d say “In my world, ‘The Lion King’ is about me, a young lion cub named Simba (Jonathan Taylor Thomas), who’s learning the ropes of my future kingdom under the watchful eye of my father Mufasa (James Earl Jones). However, tragedy strikes as my uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons) murders Mufasa, making me believe I was to blame. Heartbroken and confused, I flee the Pride Lands.
Starting in 1994, “The Lion King” debuted and was subsequently staged on Broadway. In 2019, it underwent a remake. Later in December 2024, Disney unveiled the photorealistic prequel film, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which delves into Mufasa’s backstory, providing additional depth to the original animated version.
Why Mufasa didn’t kick Scar out of his kingdom
In the movie “Mufasa: The Lion King,” it is disclosed that Mufasa (played by Aaron Pierre) is actually Taka’s (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) adoptive brother, who eventually becomes Scar. Initially, Taka yearns for a brother, but circumstances alter his perception. From the beginning, resentment begins to fester as Mufasa puts himself in harm’s way to shield those he cherishes, while Taka observes from afar. As time passes, these feelings intensify as Mufasa forms relationships and finds love, while the Pride Lands flourish under his leadership. This backstory explains Scar’s deep-seated anger – he desired a brother with whom to share life’s journey, but instead, he grew up in Mufasa’s shadow, an unfortunate reality that Mufasa seems ridden with guilt over.
It’s a tragic turn of events that Mufasa appears to believe their bond is mending during “The Lion King,” oblivious to the depth of Scar’s animosity. This is evident when Scar snubs Simba’s presentation, causing Mufasa pain. A conversation between Mufasa and Zazu (Rowan Atkinson) sheds further light on their relationship status: Mufasa confesses his efforts with Scar, yet Scar appears indifferent. It’s a sad reality given how warmly Scar once welcomed him into the family in the prequel. Recollections of their early camaraderie and Mufasa’s remorse for essentially taking Scar’s place prevent him from exiling Scar, despite the warning signs.
There’s a reason Mufasa is so shocked during the cliff scene
Scar digging his claws into Mufasa’s paws before dropping him into a wildebeest stampede is one of the most famous scenes in all of animation. The iconic moment propels the entire plot of “The Lion King.” The audience understands that Scar is set on killing his brother, and while Mufasa knows that their relationship needs work, the shock on his face when he realizes what is about to happen is painful to behold. So why is he so surprised when Scar sends him to his death, given all he knows about his character? It’s a question thoroughly answered in “Mufasa: The Lion King.”
In the opening of the prequel, a young Taka (Theo Somolu) encounters Mufasa (Braelyn Rankins), who’s running from a crocodile. To escape, Mufasa leaps onto a ledge and grips it tightly. Taka grabs hold of his fellow cub, leaving Mufasa startled by the reaction. The scene pauses slightly to let viewers catch the hint about what’s to come. Later on in the movie, Taka rescues Mufasa again. This is why Mufasa hopes that Scar will rescue him once more when he hangs off a cliff in “The Lion King.
As Mufasa gazes at Scar before his tragic end, he recalls the narrow escapes from his youth. He thinks that even though Scar holds a grudge against him, he won’t allow him to perish. Scar exploits this trust, surprising Mufasa and leaving no room for reaction as he pushes Mufasa off the cliff.
Was Scar playing the long game with Simba?
At the start of “Mufasa: The Lion King”, Taka joyfully embraces the new cub, Mufasa, as a family member, despite his father’s reservations. However, as Taka matures and transforms into Scar, he comes to regret this decision. The animosity between the two brothers, who are actually not biologically related, is gradually built up in the prequel. It is hinted that Scar has been plotting against Mufasa for a significant period of time, well before the storyline of “The Lion King”.
It looks like Simba’s appearance takes Scar by surprise, but given the storyline of the previous movie, it’s likely that Scar has just been waiting patiently. He knew Mufasa would eventually have an heir, which would give him the chance he needed. Scar couldn’t beat Mufasa in a fair fight and he’s not above using underhanded tactics. Scar exploits Simba’s curiosity and his desire to make his father proud, and although it seems like Scar’s plan was just a lucky break when watching “The Lion King” for the first time, there’s a good chance that Scar had been planning this moment for quite some time.
How Mufasa finds Simba and Nala in the elephant graveyard
In the well-known scene from “The Lion King,” where Simba and Nala (Niketa Calame-Harris) find themselves in a perilous situation surrounded by hyenas in the elephant graveyard, things look grim with no apparent escape route. The young lions seem doomed, but just when all hope seems lost, Mufasa swoops in swiftly to confront the danger. While his timely arrival initially appears unrealistic, “Mufasa: the Lion King” offers some insight into why he seemed to appear so suddenly.
Through Taka’s mom Eshe (Thandiwe Newton), Mufasa is led through his youthful years. As she observes him, she comes to understand the strength of his senses – he can sense most scents and hear when danger is near, even if it’s a day away. These skills are beneficial for a hunter, but they also prove useful in Mufasa’s daily life, particularly as he interacts with Sarabi (Tiffany Boone) and other new animals. Mufasa’s keen sense of smell and hearing might be the reason Simba and Nala are still alive. A faint scent from Simba’s fur, the sound of tiny paws, and a father’s instinct seem to set him into motion, rescuing the cubs and causing the hyenas to flee. In essence, Mufasa picked up on danger and went to check it out – and it’s fortunate that he did so.
Zazu and Mufasa’s friendship goes beyond work
The Lion King,” where Mufasa and Zazu (played by Preston Nyman) are introduced as friends who have been watching over Sarabi together.
Zazu witnesses most of Taka (Mufasa) and Taka’s brother’s (Scar) disagreement, as it unfolds prior to Mufasa expressing animosity towards Scar. The king’s trusted advisor, who is standing close by, seems well-aware of their tense relationship, humorously alluding to it at the start of “The Lion King” when he quips that every family has a Scar. This comment serves as a reminder to Mufasa that he shouldn’t hold his brother responsible for his behavior, demonstrating that their bond extends beyond formal meetings and daily reports.
Mufasa tells Rafiki that Simba is alive
Rafiki is a wise figure, always prepared to offer guidance and a touch of enchantment for good measure. The source of his powers remains one of the major mysteries in “The Lion King”. Nevertheless, it’s evident that he’s deeply connected with spirits and nature. It follows logically then, that Mufasa’s spirit communicates to Rafiki that Simba is still alive within the context of “The Lion King.
Midway through the beloved animated film, Simba is quietly grappling with his past, questioning why his father hasn’t come to his aid as promised. Overwhelmed, he collapses, sending foliage and other vegetation flying. The breeze effortlessly guides these materials directly to Rafiki, who uses them to confirm that Simba is indeed still alive.
It appears the leaves are swaying due to the wind’s influence, but it’s also a discreet signal from Mufasa indicating his intervention behind the scenes. He trusts Rafiki’s ties with the spirit realm, knowing he can assist in reaching Simba during these troubled times. Hence, Mufasa sends the leaves to Rafiki, signifying that Simba is not far off and aid for the Pride Lands is imminent.
Scar’s father is the source of his villainy
Scar’s character in “The Lion King” encompasses deception, wrath, and sharp intellect – key factors contributing to his status as one of Disney’s greatest animated villains ever. Yet, what shapes him into this formidable antagonist? To a large extent, it’s due to the influence of his father Obasi (portrayed by Lennie James). In “Mufasa: The Lion King,” we see that Obasi is repulsed by Mufasa joining their family. He labels Mufasa as a stray and insists he should not reside with the king, his heir, and other male lions. Obasi expresses that blood is the only genuine connection. Moreover, he instills in his son Scar the importance of deception as an essential weapon for any ruler.
In the course of their lessons, Scar harbors resentment towards Mufasa and feels that trickery is essential to resolve their disputes. By the time we reach “The Lion King,” Scar has perfected this method and employs it to manipulate Simba and set a trap for Mufasa. It’s heartbreaking to witness, given that there was a period when Scar behaved differently: In the prequel storyline, Taka stands by his brother, rescuing him in critical moments and aiding Mufasa in flourishing. These memories cause Mufasa to believe that beneath it all, Scar still holds some affection for him.
Why Simba doesn’t remember Rafiki
In “The Lion King”, it’s crucial that both Rafiki and Zazu are present during Simba’s presentation, as they are dear friends of Mufasa and his wife, Sarabi. However, when Simba grows up, he can’t recall Rafiki. According to the story, Rafiki (played by John Kani) had to live alone after his tribe disliked his bond with nature. He eventually accepts his solitary existence as he departs from his homeland and joins Mufasa, Taka, Sarabi, and Zazu on their quest for a land called Milele.
Instead, Simba forgoes hanging out on Pride Rock and instead devotes his time to absorbing nature and the guiding spirits that safeguard the Pride Lands’ future. This crucial task may significantly benefit Mufasa, whom he addresses as his brother. Their bond of brotherhood might be a key factor behind the powerful connection between Mufasa and Rafiki when Mufasa departs from this life. As hinted in the prequel, Mufasa’s narrative can’t be told without Rafiki, and Simba’s tale is incomplete without either of them.
Were the hyenas plotting behind Scar’s back?
From the start, Scar and the hyenas had a changeable relationship, but there are hints that the hyenas might have been planning to overthrow Scar long before he betrayed them at the end of “The Lion King.” After the events in the elephant graveyard, the hyenas claim they’re afraid of Mufasa’s power, but they view Scar as an ally. The fact that he’s related to the throne certainly helps, and his ability to provide food for them makes him a valuable friend. However, Scar believes he leads the hyenas, a belief that becomes questionable during the song “Be Prepared.” This catchy tune outlines Scar’s sinister past, and it convinces the hyenas that his plan is ultimately beneficial for them, plotting Mufasa’s downfall.
Indeed, Scar appears self-centered, and at first sight, it seems the hyenas are oblivious to this fact. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that they aren’t so naive. There’s a hint of uncertainty as they await Scar’s command to unleash the stampede, and in that instant, Shenzi (played by Whoopi Goldberg) demonstrates her true leadership role. She urges them to maintain their focus because it will ultimately benefit them. At the end of the movie, when Scar tries to shift the blame, Shenzi appears to give the hyena gang permission to assault him, implying that they had discussed this contingency plan earlier. It seems like this was always a backup strategy, and Shenzi didn’t hesitate when it came time to put it into action.
Why is Simba mistaken for Mufasa upon his return?
Simba’s return to Pride Rock is a big surprise for everyone, especially Scar and Simba’s mother Sarabi — but their reactions are even more surprising. At first, both believe that he is Mufasa, with Scar visibly getting a chill up his spine. Simba corrects his mother who replies that she truly thought that her son was dead. These reactions could be a way of showing Simba how much he is like his father, but it could also mean that the spirit world has been doing some work off camera. Has Mufasa been appearing in the dreams (and the nightmares) of those he left behind?
At the culmination of “The Lion King,” it becomes apparent that Mufasa has been supporting Simba even beyond death, as evidenced by their connection with Rafiki when it’s time for Simba to return home. Scar’s terror upon confusing Simba with Mufasa hints at the possibility that Mufasa has been haunting him in his dreams. Given Mufasa’s fearlessness in confronting challenges, it is plausible that he would challenge Scar in his dreams if given the chance. Sarabi’s response suggests that her deceased husband might be appearing to her in dreams, reminiscing about their past and offering comfort that everything will eventually be alright. Indeed, if Mufasa can guide Simba, it stands to reason that he could also visit other family members as well.
What each rainfall symbolizes
In the vast expanse of the Pride Lands, where sunshine dominates most days, rainfall is eagerly awaited. But in “The Lion King,” rain is not just precipitation; it’s a significant event. As detailed in “Mufasa: The Lion King,” rain signifies a turning point, hinting at someone’s approaching destiny. Two monumental instances in the story unfold with rain. A heavy downpour sweeps across the Pride Lands soon after Simba is introduced to the kingdom, indicating that Simba is the heir and it’s time for him to learn from his father. This could also be a hint of Mufasa’s impending death, another crucial transition in the kingdom, as Scar moves towards his own destiny.
At the conclusion of the movie, it rains once more. Post Scar’s downfall, the rainwater sweeps away the devastation that had occurred throughout the region. Simba and the lions let out roars as the rain falls, indicating their understanding that a new era has begun, with Simba now living up to his destiny as he takes on the role of king. The rain also serves as a symbol of the circle of life, fostering growth in a land that had been barren, offering the animals fresh food and surroundings to explore. Watching “Mufasa: The Lion King” will make you realize the importance of the rain scenes in “The Lion King” even more.
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2024-12-20 02:30