It’s hard to discern which is more shocking about this “Lion King 2” news. Is it the fact that Disney is actually going to make a sequel to “The Lion King” remake? Well, okay, after it earned more than $1 billion, a sequel was all but assured, sure. So, I guess the most shocking aspect of this project is the fact that Barry Jenkins is going to direct.
Yes, you read that right. Barry Jenkins, of “Moonlight” and “If Beale Street Could Talk” fame, is signed on by Disney to helm the upcoming sequel to Jon Favreau’s ‘Lion King’ “live-action” remake. According to Deadline, Jeff Nathanson, the writer behind the 2019 film, is back to script the new feature and has already finished his first draft. Plot details are being kept under wraps, but the report claims the sequel will take a “Godfather: Part II” approach to the story, with the characters continuing their path while also focusing on the early days of Mufasa, who died in the first film.
“Helping my sister raise two young boys during the ’90s, I grew up with these characters,” Jenkins said. “Having the opportunity to work with Disney on expanding this magnificent tale of friendship, love and legacy while furthering my work chronicling the lives and souls of folk within the African diaspora is a dream come true.”
It’s also unclear when we might see Jenkins’ “The Lion King 2.” The filmmaker is currently wrapping up work on his highly-anticipated Amazon series, “Underground Railroad.” He’s also signed on to direct a new biopic about Alvin Ailey, as well as write new features “Flint Strong” and “Virunga.” In addition, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention our recent exclusive about the filmmaker working with Andre Holland on a new season of “The Knick,” though he could only be signed on for a producer role.
Regardless, it appears that Jon Favreau is out and Barry Jenkins is in. And honestly, even though it’s surprising to see Jenkins tackle such a huge, commercial project, we can’t help but be a little more excited about the prospect of a ‘Lion King’ sequel, as long as he’s involved.