Mufasa: The Lion King serves as both a prequel and a sequel to the Lion King franchise, mixing strands of nostalgia and innovation. This part, directed by Barry Jenkins (renowned for his nuanced storytelling) and written by Jeff Nathanson, attempts to deconstruct the mythology around one of cinema’s most legendary individuals.

Set in the Pride Lands, the film delves into themes of identity, legacy, and the muddy seas of royal claim. Mufasa is portrayed as a plucky underdog rather than a predestined king, drawing parallels with historical individuals who challenged entrenched power. This portrayal addresses societal concerns such as nepotism and the complexities of familial devotion.

Mufasa and Taka’s sibling rivalry (later Scar) echoes the Cain and Abel narrative, suggesting that envy can lead to tragic consequences. However, the framing method, which features Rafiki repeating Mufasa’s story, adds a metatextual layer by honoring storytelling traditions that span generations.