ROME – Playing iconic characters such as Mufasa and Scar in a prequel that tells the origins of The Lion King it is a challenge full of emotions and responsibilities. Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr., voices of Mufasa and Taka respectively, tackled this adventure under the direction of Barry Jenkins. A project that explores the youth of the famous protagonists, revealing the complexity of their personal journeys. During a Zoom meeting, the two actors told us behind the scenes of their work, the importance of cultural representation and the value of this new perspective.
BARRY JENKINS – Aaron: «The work was guided by Barry's crystal-clear vision, his deep understanding of the story and the characters' journey. For me it was a journey made up of attempts and failures: it is only by finding that moment of truth that you can truly discover the character. That's where I found the essence of Mufasa.” Kelvin: «I observed Barry as much as possible and, at a certain point, I trusted my instincts. Barry's greatness is in giving yourself space, in knowing that we are capable and in valuing our talent. We both auditioned for both roles, and in the end I said to myself: if Barry thinks I'm capable, then I'll give it my all and make it.”
THE MESSAGE OF UNITY – Kelvin: «I believe that the true cultural heart of The Lion King lies in the universal message it carries: regardless of the tribe or “pack” we belong to, there is room for everyone. What I love about the first film is that Mufasa never completely shut Scar out: he gave him a chance, entrusting him with managing the hyenas. It wasn't about saying “I don't want you anymore” or “you are my enemy”, but rather: “I want you to have a role, because you are my brother and you are part of my family”. This, for me, is the real message of The Lion King: we all belong to one community, we must treat each other with respect and remember that we are part of a whole.”
FROM TEENAGERS TO KINGS – Aaron: «Look now The Lion King through this new perspective it gave me a deeper understanding of who these characters really were before the 1994 story. In the film we meet Mufasa, Taka – who will become Scar -, Rafiki and Zazu in their adolescence, when they have not yet found their path . It is an inspiring narrative because it reminds us that no one is born a king. Mufasa himself doesn't start from point B: he starts from point A, from a path of vulnerability and discovery, to get to that point B. Seeing this evolution is incredible and pushes us to be authentic in our personal journey.”
- OPINIONS | Mufasa: The Lion King, the review
- VIDEO | Here for the trailer of the film:
