As a long-time fan of Lin-Manuel Miranda and his incredible talent for blending history, music, and storytelling, I was thrilled to hear about his latest project: “Mufasa: The Lion King” prequel. However, it seems that even a musical genius like Miranda felt a bit apprehensive at first due to the towering legacy of the original film’s soundtrack.
Following Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rise to fame from his blockbuster Broadway musicals, Hamilton and In The Heights, this versatile composer has lately joined the ranks of notable figures contributing significantly to Disney music. Previously, he created unique tunes for Moana, Encanto, and the live-action version of The Little Mermaid. Now, his skills are being utilized for another upcoming Disney film – Mufasa: The Lion King. Interestingly enough, it seems that “Hakuna Matata” wasn’t on his mind when he was initially presented with this opportunity.
Recently, Lin-Manuel Miranda discussed his experience in creating music for Mufasa during his onstage talk at the Fast Company Innovation Festival 2024 in New York City, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. At first, the composer admitted to experiencing “great trepidation” about contributing to the prequel of The Lion King, given that the original film with songs by Elton John and Tim Rice is a massive phenomenon. Miranda described it as having “five fantastic hits.
However, then something changed his mind. Or, someone anyway. It was Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins. As Miranda commented:
That’s sort of like Greta Gerwig directing Barbie.
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Jenkins is the filmmaker behind the Best Picture winner Moonlight along with 2019’s If Beale Street Could Talk. He is one of the most acclaimed Black filmmakers of our time, and he’s helming a massive big-budget blockbuster for the first time with Mufasa. Lin-Manuel Miranda comparing him and The Lion King prequel to Greta Gerwig and Barbie seems to be in relation to the filmmakers having distinct voices and huge properties to bring their visions to.
Before Gerwig took on the project of Barbie, she had already directed other heartfelt projects such as Lady Bird and Little Women, which generated considerable award consideration. In the case of last year’s blockbuster, she managed to create a film based on a well-known commercial brand by centering the narrative around the strength of girlhood and womanhood. Additionally, Margot Robbie was involved as a producer in the project.
As the release date for “Mufasa: The Lion King” nears, it’s clear that the movie will delve into Mufasa’s origins and his brotherhood with Scar before their rift. With the film almost upon us, discussions are bound to arise about how “Moonlight” portraying a Black man’s life journey from childhood to maturity compares and contrasts with the tale in “Mufasa”.
You can check out the Mufasa trailer here:
In the upcoming film, Aaron Pierre lends his voice to Mufasa, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. takes on the role of Scar. Additionally, Seth Rogen reprises his character as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner returns as Timon, John Kani portrays Rafiki, Donald Glover plays Simba, and Beyoncé voices Nala. Anticipate Barry Jenkins’ interpretation of Mufasa, along with the melodies crafted by Miranda, when the movie hits theaters on December 20, 2024.
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2024-09-19 16:07