In an exclusive interview, Mufasa: The Lion King director Barry Jenkins settled the debate surrounding the 2019 Lion King remake’s classification, confirming that the prequel is an animated film.
Despite its photorealistic visuals, Jenkins emphasized that the movie uses animation tools, not live-action methods.
He explained that his team manipulates photorealistic models to achieve expressive animation, marking it as an animated project, not live-action.
The upcoming prequel, set to release in December 2024, focuses on Mufasa’s early life.
The film features returning stars like Donald Glover and Beyoncé, alongside new cast members including Aaron Pierre as Mufasa and Thandiwe Newton.