By Yinka Akanbi
Nigerian actors, Theo Somolu and Folake Olowofoyeku, have secured roles in Disney’s latest film titled ‘Mufasa’.
The prequel to the classic, which delves into the origin of Simba’s father, is scheduled to hit cinemas on December 20, 2024.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, the movie will blend live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery.
Olowofoyeku is known for multiple roles in both movies and television series, including her role in the popular sitcom, Bob Hearts Abishola (2019), Death Race 2050 (2017), Female Fight Club (2016), and 10,000 A.D.: The Legend of the Black Pearl (2008).
Similarly, Somolu is expected to contribute his experience from previous projects, such as the children’s television program Mighty Express (2020), and Baggio: The Divine Ponytail (2021).
The teaser trailer for the film debuted on the US breakfast show Good Morning America, hinting at Mufasa’s transformative journey despite his humble beginnings.
According to Disney, “Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka — the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny — their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.”
The film is expected to hit the cinemas on December 20, 2024.
