Mufasa: The Lion King is a bit long in the tale but gorgeous to look at

The Circle of Life expands once again with this Lion King prequel, a portrait of the monarch as a young wanderer.

Power couple Nala (Beyoncé Knowles-Carter) and Simba (Donald Glover) are set to be parents for a second time. As they prepare to welcome their new cub, firstborn Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter) is entertained by returning uber-chancers Pumbaa (Seth Rogen) and Timon (Billy Eichner) and wisest old soul Rafiki (John Kani) with the story of how her grandfather Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) made his way in the wild.

Once upon a lion, Mufasa was separated from his parents during the rains. He was rescued by his brother from another mother, Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr), and learned loads of lessons as he tried to get back home. Now, all that lore is shared with Kiara.

Watch: Barry Jenkins, director, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, songwriter, discuss the music of Mufasa: The Lion King.

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With Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk director Barry Jenkins behind the lens - a giant mainstream movie leap, but it suits him - the themes here are as big as the manes. As our hero gets knocked down and comes back for more, Mufasa delivers its message about unity and welcoming outsiders. The film never becomes overly preachy; there are laughs and action amidst the challenges and, of course, songs too.

As with the 2019 Lion King remake, the photorealistic animation is stunning (the older you get, the more the sense of wonder about how they do it), but at 120 minutes Mufasa stretches the story too much. They could've wrapped in 90 and every fan would still have had a smile on their face.

Overall, the franchise is still in fine nick and the further adventures of Kiara should appear on the Christmas horizon in the years to come. In the here and now, this film will do a roaring trade and if members of your own pride are of a certain age, chances are you'll be part of that tally.

Fittingly, Mufasa: The Lion King opens with a tribute to late patriarch James Earl Jones - one about looking to the stars when you feel alone and how those you miss are always up above. It's a lovely thing to be reminded of at this time of year.

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