It’s a horrendously contrived setup, forced into the narrative to makeMufasa’s journey more significant.
The film’s ending also reveals Mufasa asthe founding ruler of the Pride Lands and Pride Rock.
‘Mufasa’ has grossed over $625 million globally.
Image via Disney
But the narrative elements designed to prop up Mufasa detract from Simba’s story.
Simba now comes off as inferior to his father, the original king of the Pride Lands.
Rather, they are depicted as cruel, vain, and unkind.
Image via Disney
Therefore, Mufasa and Simba lacka great legacy of kings as their role models and inspiration.
Scar’s chief motivation always appeared to be how much he coveted his brother’s throne.
Additionally, the change lessensthe personal stakes for Scar’s betrayal of Simba.
The explanation takes away from Scar’s past grandeur and theatricality.
The original animated Scar is one ofthe all-time great Disney animated villains, wonderfully voiced byJeremy Irons.
He did not need a convoluted backstory toemerge as an epic villain.
Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
The animators' indelible work and Irons' vocal performance prove that point.
