*Fans around the world can now relive the magic of “Mufasa: The Lion King” as the film makes its highly anticipated debut on Disney+. Following a triumphant box office run that earned over $700 million globally, the visually stunning and emotionally resonant prequel is now available for streaming, allowing audiences to experience its breathtaking animation and unforgettable music anytime, anywhere.
For the young stars of the film, Braelyn Rankins (Young Mufasa) and Theo Somolu (Young Taka), the Disney+ launch marks a new chapter in the journey of a movie that has captivated fans since its release. (This interview had been edited for clarity and length.)
“Yes, definitely exciting,” Rankins shared. “I know even a few of my friends weren’t able to see it in the theater. So knowing that they’ll be able to watch it at home and even that I’ll be able to watch it at home—there are definitely a few scenes that I want to go back to and watch over and over again. But I’m just really excited for everyone to be able to see it from the comfort of their couch.”
Somolu echoed his co-star’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the accessibility of the film on Disney+. “I’d definitely say the same thing. And of course, the availability—there’s lots more. To be able to watch it from Disney+, which is a massive platform, is an achievement in itself. But now, for me to be able to have that movie for ages, of course, in cinemas it’s limited. Whereas with Disney+, I can watch it whenever I want. And I can have friends over and family over to watch the film with me instead of having to go on a trek to get to the cinema.”
As a prequel to “The Lion King,” the film explores the origins of Mufasa, revealing his struggles as an orphaned cub and his deep bond with Taka, the lion who would later become Scar. Rankins and Somolu embraced the challenge of bringing these iconic characters to life in their younger years.
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“It was just really different,” Rankins said of playing Mufasa. “We see him from such a different perspective in the first movie, even in the live-action version. So being able to bring a much younger, more innocent, and fresh view to him was fun to create. And really interesting to see—even when I was reading the script and recording my lines, Mufasa was like, you know, in a flood. It was just a fun experience for me.”
Somolu found portraying Taka equally rewarding. “I love doing it, of course. Being able to show that Taka wasn’t bad at the start, but was just an innocent young cub. He had a massive personality, and it almost all got taken away. But being able to portray that personality and put my personality into that role, and finding that sweet spot between what I wanted and what the producers wanted, was really fun.”
One of the film’s most memorable moments is its viral hit song, I Always Wanted a Brother, penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The emotionally charged number captures the deep yet complicated relationship between Mufasa and Taka.
“It shaped my understanding massively,” Somolu admitted. “Of course, I’ve wanted a brother as well, so I almost related to that. And to be able to play this role and sing this song, almost telling the story of Taka’s feelings for Mufasa in one song, and for it to go viral as well—it’s just amazing.”
For Rankins, the song provided an eye-opening perspective on the characters’ dynamic.
“It was almost a little bit shocking because, you know, when we were introduced to Scar and Mufasa, the relationship was really, really complicated. They’re almost like enemies,” he said. “So seeing that at one point when they were younger, they had such a close bond and that Scar even wanted Mufasa as a brother—it’s just kind of like, really? But yeah, I just thought it was so interesting to watch that whole storyline unfold.”
Now that “Mufasa: The Lion King” is part of the Disney+ library, both young actors hope audiences will take their time appreciating the film’s deeper themes and hidden details.
“I think when you’re watching it in theatres, it can be kind of hard to take it all in. You may miss some things,” Rankins noted. “That was definitely my experience watching it at the premiere. So I think when you’re at home, in a more familiar and comfortable space, you can actually take in more of the movie and experience things you may have missed—like some of the little Easter eggs.”
Somolu agreed, adding, “I’ve watched the film probably about five times over, and watching it the first time, there were so many things that I didn’t realize until I watched it again. When you have it on a platform like Disney+, you can watch it as many times as you want.”
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Beyond the adventure, action, and music, “Mufasa: The Lion King” offers a powerful message about resilience, identity, and family. Rankins reflected on what he hopes audiences take away from the film.
“Honestly, I think the main message I got was that your past doesn’t form you or define you—especially with Mufasa’s story. He starts off lost and alone, but when you see him evolve into a dad and the king of the Pride Lands, you realize that your past doesn’t make you who you are. You can decide your own path.”
Somolu’s takeaway was just as heartfelt: “I’d probably say make the most of your family and your siblings because, of course, Taka and Mufasa had this amazing friendship, and one wrong move and they lost it all. Just make the most of what you have and cherish it,” he shared.
As these young stars continue their Hollywood journey, their performances in Mufasa: The Lion King have undoubtedly left a lasting impression. Now, with the film available to stream on Disney+, audiences everywhere can experience the magic all over again—anytime they want.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Arrives on Digital Platforms with Exclusive Bonus Features | Watch
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