ROME – In Mufasa: The Lion Kingaudiences will finally have the opportunity to learn about the past of Sarabi, the future queen and mother of Simba. Tiffany Boone, voice of the character, tells how she faced the complexity of Sarabi: a strong and independent lioness, but also capable of showing her vulnerability. Under the direction of Barry Jenkins, Boone explores the evolution of a character who is not just a mother and wife, but a young lioness searching for her own identity. Here's what he told us on Zoom.
BETWEEN STRENGTH AND VULNERABILITY – «I feel very close to Sarabi, we have a lot in common. I may be bold and independent, but beneath the surface I'm a softie. As soon as I'm in the company of people who make me feel safe, I become completely myself. In the film, Sarabi's journey is just that: finding community and having the courage to show her vulnerable side. It's a path that came out very naturally for me. There is a very interesting scene where Sarabi is walking and talking to Taka. Here emerges a perfect balance between his sarcastic and more vulnerable side. It was one of the most fun parts to play, because it really shows all the facets of his character.”
PREPARATION FOR THE ROLE – «I felt a strong responsibility to be part of the legacy of The Lion King. I wanted to do it justice, and for me this was my first experience as a voice actress. I worked with a coach, re-watched all the previous films to better understand the context and past interpretations of Sarabi, had singing lessons and then the most classic job for an actor: analyzing the character's intentions, the obstacles to overcome and his relations. It was a long and very intense process.”
SARABI, BEYOND THE QUEEN – «I hope the public gets to know Sarabi better. As a fan of The Lion KingI knew little about her: we see her as mother, wife, queen, but we don't know how she got there. It's interesting to discover that she wasn't always the confident figure we know. At the beginning of Mufasa: The Lion King she's a young princess trying to figure out who she is, just like the rest of us. I hope the public is able to recognize themselves in this growth journey.”
WORKING WITH BARRY JENKINS – «Barry surprised me. He makes deep and dramatic films, so I expected a very serious person. Instead he is always joking, creating an atmosphere of joy on set. My husband had worked with him before and told me that's just how he works. He obviously respects the work and knows how to be extremely serious and thoughtful at the right moments, but he also has a light and fun side that makes the creative process truly special.”
- OPINIONS | Mufasa: The Lion King, the review
- VIDEO | Here for the trailer of the film:
