#John Kani Theatre

[robynsassenmyview]

Little house in the garden

"Little house in the garden", a review of 'The Promise' directed by Sylvaine Strike, at the Market Theatre until 5 November 2023.

WHERE there’s a will, there’s a will: From left Anton (Rob Van Vuuren), Salome (Chuma Sopotela), Tannie Marina (Cintaine Schutte), the lawyer Cherise Coutts (Kate Normington) and Astrid (Jenny Stead). Photograph by Claude Barnardo, courtesy The Market Theatre. TAKE THE GENRE of the South African farm novel, throw it in the air with all its idiosyncrasies and hypocrisies, violence and violation,…

[do-you-know-this-play]

[vantagevu]

Zoë Modiga at The Market Theatre

Nzal’Abantu Concerts Celebrates Women with Zoë Modiga at The Market Theatre BandaBanda Agency proudly announces the upcoming Nzal’Abantu Concerts featuring acclaimed artist Zoë Modiga, in an exclusive engagement at The Market Theatre’s John Kani Stage. This special event not only marks Zoë Modiga’s debut at The Market Theatre but also celebrates the essence of womanhood through her latest…

[themovieblogonline]

The Teaser for Mufasa: The Lion King Is Here

Disney is back again with another (almost) live-action film adaptation. The studio will be revisiting our favorite wild animals with Mufasa: The Lion King, a musical drama prequel that shows Mufasa’s rise to becoming the king of the jungle. The film will feature the voice acting of Aaron Pierre as the titular character, along with Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, Mads Mikkelsen, Donald Glover, and more. Let’s take a look at the teaser for Mufasa: The Lion King below and talk about what we know so far! What to Expect From Trailer and Mufasa: The Lion King The film is a photorealistic animated movie, bringing back the style used in the 2019 remake of The Lion King. It’s not quite animated in terms of traditional Disney style, but it feels more live-action than we ever expected. Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) directed the film from Jeff Nathanson’s script, drawing inspiration from all of The Lion King properties that came before it. The story will watch as Rafiki tells the tale of Mufasa to Kiara, the lion cub born from Simba and Nala. Mufasa’s story starts out with an orphaned cub who is eventually taken in by Taka, a royal heir. Timon and Pumbaa will be along for the ride to tell some jokes and sing some songs, too.  Another exciting fact is that Blue Ivy will play Kiara (Simba and Nala's daughter.) Blue Ivy is the real-life daughter of Beyoncé, who plays Queen Nala. Why We’re Excited The Lion King is often considered the best of the best when it comes to Disney animated films. The responses to the remake in 2019 were mixed, with plenty praising the photorealism and others wondering why it was needed. Regardless, we’re just happy to see more potential fro m the jungle. So, we’ll definitely be lining up for tickets! As seen in the teaser, Mufasa: The Lion King will release in theatres on December 20th, 2024. Will you be watching? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzoeudnoXDo Read the full article

[kevintumbles]

Theatre Review: ‘Sizwe Banzi is Dead’ at Arena Players

In October, 1972, a new play made its world premiere in Cape Town, South Africa. Published under the title “Sizwe Bansi [sic] is Dead,” the piece was devised by Athol Fugard, John Kani, and Winston Ntshona. It was performed by Kani and Ntshona, and directed by Fugard. As a playwright, Athol Fugard is likely best […] See original article at: https://mdtheatreguide.com/2023/04/theatre-review-sizwe-banzi-is-dead-at-arena-players/

[mabriga]

Joburg Theatre with John Kani Announces August Wilson’s Fences For Black History Month 2023

Joburg Theatre with John Kani Announces August Wilson’s Fences For Black History Month 2023

Following the successful appointment of James Ngcobo as Artistic Director in July 2022, Joburg Theatre is eagerly announcing August Wilson’s Fences with John Kani, under Ngcobo’s stewardship. August Wilson, the African American playwright referred to as “theatre’s poet of Black America”, is best known for his remarkable works on the 20th century African American experience including Fences,…

[bwthornton]

What's on in #StratforduponAvon tonight RSC and Fugard Theatre Kunene and the King by John Kani directed by Janice Honeyman at the Swan Theatre Stratford #Theatre #Theater #Warwickshire

https://stratford-upon-avon-theatre.blogspot.com/2019/03/rsc-and-fugard-theatre-kunene-and-king.html

[blackpantherunpacked]

The Actors behind T’Chaka: Black Panther Unpacked #5

Did any of you recognise the actors who play the old T’Chaka (John Kani)

 and the young T’Chaka? (Atandwa Kani, seen here standing with Chad Boseman in a behind-the-scenes photo.)

I’m guessing a general ‘’No,’’ and that’s OK, but I thought you might like to know that they’re quite famous in South Africa; one being a veteran actor, writer and director of the anti-apartheid theatre movement and the other being his son, who is a successful actor in his own right.

John Kani made his career on the underground circuits of the anti-apartheid theatre scene in South Africa. It was a time of serious repression and banning. Performing in or even watching anti-government plays could land you in detention, where torture and death were everyday occurrences. 

Anti-Apartheid theatre is studied today for the dogged resilience and stalwart strength of its practitioners and audiences. Perhaps Kani’s most famous performance from those days is in ‘’Sizwe Banzi Is Dead’’.  The play came out in the 1970s, during some of the darkest days under the regime. It toured the world and by the time of liberation, it had become a legend: a classic now studied in Drama 101 classes and performed by students throughout the institutions of higher learning in South Africa.

Kani went on to work in many TV programmes and Hollywood films and has been a household name for decades.

Casting the father-son pair as T’Chaka, the old and young King of Wakanda, seems to me to have been a salute to artistic struggles for liberation back on the motherland. A salute recognised and appreciated by Southern African audience members who would be well aware of the actor’s role in liberating their hearts and souls from oppression as well as the role that his son Atandwa is playing in keeping that sprit alive.

[ladymazzy]

7 Things You Didn't Know About John Kani | RSC Key Members' Room | Royal Shakespeare Company

7 Things You Didn't Know About John Kani

If you've been curious to find out a little more about actor, writer and activist John Kani, you've come to the right place!

It’s been ten years since John Kani and Antony Sher last appeared together at the Royal Shakespeare Company, and now the pair are together on stage again in Kunene and the King, which has recently opened in the Swan Theatre.

Kunene and the King marks 25 years since the first post-apartheid democratic elections in South Africa, and reflects on a quarter century of change in this country. Did you know that, as well as performing in it, John Kani also wrote this two-hander production?

To celebrate John’s return to the RSC, we wanted to share some amazing facts about the award-winning playwright, actor and activist.

John has won a Tony Award

John’s work on both Sizwe Banzi is Dead and The Island in the 1970s saw him win a Tony Award for Best Actor, and a Tony nomination for best play, alongside his friend, the late Winston Ntshona.

Both plays premiered in South Africa (1972/73) before transferring to the Royal Court in London a year later. After a critically acclaimed run, they then transferred to the Ambassadors, before winning The London Theatre Critics Award. The shows then arrived on Broadway, at the Edison Theatre, to critical acclaim, with John and Winston co-winning the Tony Award for Best Actor.

He's everyone's favourite monkey in The Lion King

In the live action version of the Disney classic coming out this year, John voices Rafiki, whose name means “friend” in Swahili, and is the wise old mandrill who iconically presents Simba above Pride Rock at the beginning of the film.

Wakanda Forever

“You're a good man with a good heart. And it's hard for a good man to be king” – King T’Chaka

You may have seen John in the role of King T’Chaka in Marvel’s Black Panther (2018) and in Captain America: Civil War (2016). T’Chaka is the father to T’Challa – aka Black Panther – and was formerly the King of Wakanda. He is also not the only member of the Kani family to appear in the Marvel franchise. The actor playing the younger version of King T’Chaka is actually John's son, Atandwa Kani.

John also played an integral role in advising on the accurate use of Xhosa* in the film.

*Xhosa is an Nguni Bantu language with click consonants and is one of the official languages of South Africa

John has been at the RSC before

The last time John Kani was at the RSC was the same year Matt Smith was named as the new Doctor Who, Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United, and an airliner landed safely on the Hudson River in New York.

John last appeared in Janice Honeyman’s The Tempest in 2009 as Caliban, with Antony Sher playing the role of Prospero alongside him. 10 years on from their last RSC show together, Janice, Antony and John have now reunited for Kunene and the King.

Before this he was also in Hamlet during the 2006 Complete Works Festival - a production which was directed by fellow South African Janet Suzman and provided a vivid reflection of South Africa as the Rainbow Nation. 

He has threats made on his life

In 1985 John appeared in a production of Miss Julie at the Baxter Theatre, Cape  Town, which marked the first on-stage occurrence of a black man kissing a white woman (Sandra Prinsloo) on stage under the apartheid regime. Under the apartheid, interracial relationships and marriages were forbidden and against the law. Not only did the majority of the South African audience walk out of the play, but John also received threats on his life, public vilification and was even attacked, receiving eleven stab wounds.

…and he has a prosthetic eye

After Sizwe Banzi is Dead and The Island – productions that raised several questions about South Africa’s political system, particularly in relation to apartheid – had finished their runs in the USA, John returned to South Africa where he received a phone call from his father inviting him over to his house.

On his way there, John was intercepted by the police who beat him and left him for dead. During the attack he lost his eye and now wears a glass prosthetic.

He was the first black actor to play Othello in South Africa

“I’d just done a play called The Native Who Caused All the Trouble at the Market Theatre, when Janet Suzman came to me and said: “it’s about time,” to which I say, “what…?”. “To do the big one of course!” and I say “Janet, what are you talking about?” and she says: “Othello!” to which I say, “Oh no! I carry eleven stab wounds on my body, have survived assignation, been detained and have to be careful even walking the street because everybody wants me dead”. So, thank you, but I am not going to do this play… But then I went home and thought “it’d be nice to do it all again.” I told Janet I had one condition. I said I would only do it if I was the only black actor.” – John Kani

Seven years before the end of apartheid, in 1987, John became the first black South African actor to play Othello on stage. Performing opposite Joanna Weinburg as Desdemona, and directed by Janet Suzman, the play ran at the Market Theatre and opened to rave reviews – but John still received threats from the authorities.

[clamorousvoice]

Identity and atrocity: international theatre since 1945

Identity and atrocity: theatre since 1945

This post is to publicise my lecture series this term on Identity and Atrocity in Anglophone theatre since 1945. It’ll be happening on Fridays at 11.15 in Lecture Room K of the English Faculty for Weeks 1–5 of term (18 Jan to 15 Feb), and the outline is below. For more information, leave a comment or email me (sophie.duncan at chch.ox.ac.uk). I’ll be tweeting about the lecture series at #IDtheatre

[marvelheaux]

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Atandwa and John Kani (recording the video) in Atlanta.

[mrdaps]

Filmmakers, stars, and other special guests were on hand in Hollywood last night for the world premiere of Disney’s The Lion King. This retelling of this classic animated movie has a photorealistic look that is simply stunning! The movie opens on July 19, 2019.

Guests on hand for the premiere included the cast of The Lion King. This included Donald Glover, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, Billy Eichner, John Kani, Florence Kasumba, Eric André, Keegan-Michael Key, JD McCrary, Shahadi Wright Joseph, and Chance the Rapper. Many of the filmmakers for the film were also in attendance. Among them was Jon Favreau, p.g.a. (director/producer), Jeff Nathanson (screenwriter), Jeffrey Silver, p.g.a. (producer), Karen Gilchrist, p.g.a. (producer), Tom Peitzman (executive producer), Caleb Deschanel (director of photography), James Chinlund (production designer), Adam Gerstel (editor), John Bartnicki (co-producer), Hans Zimmer (composer), Lebo M (creator/producer African vocal/choir arrangements), Robert Legato, ASC, (VFX supervisor).

Beyond the aforementioned guests, other special guests were on hand to help celebrate the release of this movie. The list of these guests are staggering and include: Clarence Avant, Mario Lopez, Yvette Nicole Brown, Nicole Byer, Steph & Ayesha Curry, Gina Carano, LeVar Burton, Reggie Miller, Emily Deschanel, Zooey Deschanel, Diplo, Dave Filoni, LeAnn Rimes, Tiffany Haddish, Atandwa Kani, Chrissy Metz, Doua Mona, Tracy Morgan, Cedric Yarbrough,  Gary Oldman, Pedro Pascal, Meghan Trainor, Lena Waithe & Alana Mayo, Taika Waititi, Michelle Williams, Kelly Rowland, Ali Wong, Niles Fitch. From ABC:  Marsai Martin. From Disney Channel:  Raven-Symone, Navia Robinson, Sky Katz, Ruth Righi, Skai Jackson. From Freeform: Chloe & Halle Bailey, Maia Mitchell, Yara Shahidi, and Aubrey Joseph.

Check out the photos below of the special evening!

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Signage is seen during the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Fans attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Fans attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Fans attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Ruth Righi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Demi Singleton attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Marsai Martin attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Teala Dunn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Remi Cruz attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Doua Moua attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yvette Nicole Brown attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Sky Katz attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Niketa Calame-Harris attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donovan Harris (L) and Niketa Calame-Harris attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: James Chinlund (C) and Clare Crespo Chinlund (R) attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Rufus Sewell attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Billy Eichner attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: <> attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Dave Filoni attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Linda Woolverton attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Executive producer Tom Peitzman (R) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Michelle Williams attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Producer Karen Gilchrist (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Emily Deschanel attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Zooey Deschanel and Emily Deschanel attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Mary Jo Deschanel, Zooey Deschanel, Emily Deschanel, and Director of Photography Caleb Deschanel attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Visual effects supervisor Robert Legato attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Lance Gross (L) and Berkeley Brynn Gross attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key (L) and Elisa Pugliese attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Brenda Chapman (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Aubrey Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Smith attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Reggie Miller attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Pedro Pascal attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Daryl Sabara (L) and Meghan Trainor attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Meghan Trainor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Jacqueline Avant (L) and Clarence Avant attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Irene Mecchi (R) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Rob Minkoff (L) and Irene Mecchi attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Issac Ryan Brown attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Raven-Symone attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Patrick Starrr (L) and Raven-Symone attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Anna Akana (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Anneliese van der Pol attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Stephanie Cozart Burton, LeVar Burton, and Michaela Jean Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Patrick Starrr attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Heather Traska attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Maia Mitchell attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Raline Shah attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Hans Zimmer (C) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Roy Choi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Syndee Winters attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chester Gregory attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Guillermo Rodriguez (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Sir John attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Cedric Yarbrough (R) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) LeAnn Rimes, Eddie Cibrian, Jake Austin Cibrian, and Mason Edward Cibrian attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Gina Carano attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Nia Sioux attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Visual effects artist Andy Jones (R) and guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Artemis Pebdani (L) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (L) and Halle Bailey attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Jimmy Kimmel attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: David Dobrik attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Marco Mengoni attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Jazzmyne Robbins attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Mandi Kani, John Kani, and Atandwa Kani attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Eric Andre attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Eric Andre attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Producer Jeffrey Silver (R) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Florence Kasumba (L) and Shahadi Wright Joseph attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Florence Kasumba attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Lisa Bennett, Kirsten Corley, Chance The Rapper, and Kensli Bennett attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Maiya Grace Baldoni (second from R), Justin Baldoni (R), and guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Gia Francesca Lopez, Mario Lopez, and Dominic Lopez attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Creator/producer African vocal/choir arrangements Lebo M. (L) and guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Don Hahn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Co-producer John Bartnicki (L) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Courtney Quinn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Kelly Rowland attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Alfre Woodard attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Roderick Spencer, Alfre Woodard, Mavis Spencer, and Duncan Spencer attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Normani attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/Producer Jon Favreau and President, Marketing, The Walt Disney Studios Asad Ayaz attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/Producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/Producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Blue Ivy Carter (L) and Beyonce Knowles-Carter attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: JD McCrary attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Josh McCrary attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yara Shahidi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Ryan Curry, Ayesha Curry, Riley Curry, and Stephen Curry attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yara Shahidi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Jamie Foxx (C) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Logan Browning attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: John Kani and Director/producer Jon Favreau attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, Shahadi Wright Joseph, JD McCrary, Director/Producer Jon Favreau, Donald Glover, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, and Chiwetel Ejiofor attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Hans Zimmer, Chance The Rapper, Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, Shahadi Wright Joseph, JD McCrary, Director/Producer Jon Favreau, Donald Glover, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Kani, Alfre Woodard, Keegan-Michael Key, Florence Kasumba, and Eric Andre attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Eric Andre (L) and Tiffany Haddish attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish (L) and Florence Kasumba attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: JD McCrary (L) and Keegan-Michael Key attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen (L) and Billy Eichner attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: JD McCrary (L) and Jon Favreau attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) JD McCrary, Jon Favreau, and Josh McCrary attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production Sean Bailey and Composer Hans Zimmer attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover (L) and Marco Mengoni attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Beyonce Knowles-Carter, JD McCrary and Director/producer Jon Favreau attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover and LeVar Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau and Billy Eichner attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) John Kani, Alfre Woodard and LeVar Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Alfre Woodard, Chris Tucker and Tiffany Haddish attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen and Pedro Pascal attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Visual effects supervisor Robert Legato and Producer Jeffrey Silver attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Signage is seen during the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Zooey Deschanel attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Pedro Pascal attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (L) and Halle Bailey attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (C) and Halle Bailey (R) attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (C) and Halle Bailey (R) attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Mandi Kani (L) and John Kani attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Halle Bailey and The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau and The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Sam Dickerman, President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production Sean Bailey, Director/Producer Jon Favreau, Co-Chairman of The Walt Disney Studios Alan Bergman, and The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Beyonce Knowles-Carter and The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Kirsten Corley, Kensli Bennett, and Chance The Rapper attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Elisa Pugliese, Keegan-Michael Key, and Beyonce Knowles-Carter attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Shahadi Wright Joseph, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, and Blue Ivy Carter attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph and JD McCrary attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph and Donald Glover attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Chiwetel Ejiofor, Director/producer Jon Favreau and Donald Glover attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Ruth Righi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Demi Singleton attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Marsai Martin attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Teala Dunn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Doua Moua attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Remi Cruz attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yvette Nicole Brown attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Niketa Calame-Harris attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donovan Harris (L) and Niketa Calame-Harris attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Sky Katz attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: James Chinlund (C) and Clare Crespo Chinlund (R) attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Skai Jackson attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Rufus Sewell attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Linda Woolverton attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Michelle Williams attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Executive producer Tom Peitzman (R) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Adam Waheed attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Denise Rodriguez attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Director of Photography Caleb Deschanel, Mary Jo Deschanel, Zooey Deschanel, and Emily Deschanel attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Billy Eichner attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Zooey Deschanel attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key (L) and Elisa Pugliese attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Keegan-Michael Key (L) and Elisa Pugliese attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: VFX Supervisor Robert Legato attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Lance Gross (L) and Berkeley Brynn Gross attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Sarah Halley Finn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Kalen Allen attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Daryl Sabara (L) and Meghan Trainor attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Reggie Miller (L) and guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Clarence Avant (L) and Jacqueline Avant attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Pedro Pascal attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Aubrey Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Neel Sethi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Neel Sethi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Smith attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Raven-Symone attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Raven-Symone attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Issac Ryan Brown attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Jason Maybaumattends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Anneliese van der Pol attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Michaela Jean Burton, LeVar Burton, and Stephanie Cozart Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Irene Mecchi, Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff, and Brenda Chapman attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Rob Minkoff attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Hans Zimmer attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Hans Zimmer (C) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Maia Mitchell attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Patrick Starrr attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Patrick Starrr attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Jake Austin Cibrian, Mason Edward Cibrian, Eddie Cibrian, and LeAnn Rimes attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: LeAnn Rimes attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Roy Choi (L) and Kaelyn Choi attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Gina Carano attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (L) and Halle Bailey attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chloe Bailey (L) and Halle Bailey attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Navia Robinson attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Willow Bay and The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: The Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger (L) and Donald Glover attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Anna Akana (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Guillermo Rodriguez (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (L) attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Heather Traska attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Sir John attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Syndee Winters attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chester Gregory attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Atandwa Kani, Mandi Kani, and John Kani attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Nia Sioux attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Cedric Yarbrough attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Raline Shah attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Artemis Pebdani (L) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chiwetel Ejiofor attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: <> attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: David Dobrik attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Florence Kasumba attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Florence Kasumba attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Shahadi Wright Joseph attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Lisa Bennett, Kirsten Corley, Chance The Rapper, and Kensli Bennett attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chelsea Cohen (C) and Taika Waititi (R) attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Gia Francesca Lopez, Mario Lopez, and Dominic Lopez attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Brigitte Valadez attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Creator/producer African vocal/choir arrangements Lebo M. (L) and guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Maiya Grace Baldoni (L) and Justin Baldoni attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Eric Andre attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Eric Andre attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Mariel Marrero attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Co-producer John Bartnicki (L) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Kelly Rowland attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Kelly Rowland attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Titan Jewell Weatherspoon (L) and Kelly Rowland attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Icaro Silva attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Desi Perkins attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Alfre Woodard attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Alfre Woodard attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/Producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Armaan Malik attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: JD McCrary attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: JD McCrary attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Ryan Curry, Ayesha Curry, Riley Curry, and Stephen Curry attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish and Jamie Foxx with guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (C -R) Tracy Morgan, Maven Sonae Morgan, and Megan Wollover attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Lena Waithe attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Ali Wong attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tracy Morgan and Tiffany Haddish attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chrissy Metz attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Matt Bloyd and Chrissy Metz attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Calu Rivero attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yara Shahidi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Yara Shahidi attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Niles Fitch attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Regina Blandon attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Logan Browning attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Courtney Quinn attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Marco Mengoni attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Diplo attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Doua Moua attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Louis D’Esposito (L) and guest attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chrissy Metz and Marsai Martin attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Marsai Martin, Patrick Starrr and Skai Jackson attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chris Tucker attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Stephanie Cozart Burton, Tiffany Haddish and LeVar Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Tiffany Haddish and LeVar Burton attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: LeVar Burton and Chris Tucker attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Emily Deschanel and Zooey Deschanel attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Guests attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Billy Eichner attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Emily Deschanel attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Seth Rogen attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Donald Glover attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/Producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Ali Wong and Tiffany Haddish attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Director/producer Jon Favreau attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Florence Kasumba attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Chance The Rapper and Billy Eichner attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: (L-R) Donald Glover, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, and Chiwetel Ejiofor attend the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 09: Beyonce Knowles-Carter attends the World Premiere of Disney’s “THE LION KING” at the Dolby Theatre on July 09, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

The Lion King Description

Disney’s “The Lion King, directed by Jon Favreau, journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother—and former heir to the throne—has plans of his own. The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take back what is rightfully his. The all-star cast includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon. Utilizing pioneering filmmaking techniques to bring treasured characters to life in a whole new way, Disney’s “The Lion King” roars into theaters on July 19, 2019. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, https://disney.com/lionking, #TheLionKing.

Pictorial: Hollywood Celebrates the World Premiere of Disney’s The Lion King Filmmakers, stars, and other special guests were on hand in Hollywood last night for the world premiere of Disney's…

[themovieblogonline]

The Teaser for Mufasa: The Lion King Is Here

Disney is back again with another (almost) live-action film adaptation. The studio will be revisiting our favorite wild animals with Mufasa: The Lion King, a musical drama prequel that shows Mufasa’s rise to becoming the king of the jungle. The film will feature the voice acting of Aaron Pierre as the titular character, along with Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, John Kani, Mads Mikkelsen, Donald Glover, and more. Let’s take a look at the teaser for Mufasa: The Lion King below and talk about what we know so far! What to Expect From Trailer and Mufasa: The Lion King The film is a photorealistic animated movie, bringing back the style used in the 2019 remake of The Lion King. It’s not quite animated in terms of traditional Disney style, but it feels more live-action than we ever expected. Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) directed the film from Jeff Nathanson’s script, drawing inspiration from all of The Lion King properties that came before it. The story will watch as Rafiki tells the tale of Mufasa to Kiara, the lion cub born from Simba and Nala. Mufasa’s story starts out with an orphaned cub who is eventually taken in by Taka, a royal heir. Timon and Pumbaa will be along for the ride to tell some jokes and sing some songs, too.  Another exciting fact is that Blue Ivy will play Kiara (Simba and Nala's daughter.) Blue Ivy is the real-life daughter of Beyoncé, who plays Queen Nala. Why We’re Excited The Lion King is often considered the best of the best when it comes to Disney animated films. The responses to the remake in 2019 were mixed, with plenty praising the photorealism and others wondering why it was needed. Regardless, we’re just happy to see more potential fro m the jungle. So, we’ll definitely be lining up for tickets! As seen in the teaser, Mufasa: The Lion King will release in theatres on December 20th, 2024. Will you be watching? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzoeudnoXDo Read the full article

[mabriga]

Kunene and the King National Tour Premieres at Joburg Theatre

Kunene and the King National Tour Premieres at Joburg Theatre

“How do you put a nation’s history on stage? In this remarkable play, John Kani – as formidable a writer as he is an actor – does it through a confrontation between two men who represent polarised aspects of the South African experience. Marking 25 years since the country’s first post-apartheid democratic elections, the play becomes an exploration of race, class, politics, theatre, and the potenti…

[popcorn-for-dinner]

Wakanda Forever: Finding Black Pride in Kings and Teenage Girls

“You don’t know what you were missing, till you have it”

There’s a particular scene in Wonder Woman that often gets referenced when the film is being discussed; the “No Man’s Land” scene. I had the pleasure of watching Wonder Woman alone (yeah, come at me) and at the time of watching, I had no reason to believe that this would become an iconic scene. To me, it was just another good action set piece. Granted, one that I applauded (metaphorically, of course. I’m not trying to validate those stereotypes), but still, just a well-done sequence.

I would soon come to realise the power of subjectivity.

In various discussions since leaving that theatre, I have listened to countless women, both in my real life and online, talk about the effect that the scene had on them. Their experiences of joy, pride and childlike glee, with many being brought to tears.

I am under no illusion that its star (Gal Gadot) and director (Patty Jenkins) were both aware of the importance of the scene they were constructing and the need for such a scene in this movie in today’s world. I quickly realised that this scene wasn’t (primarily) directed at me. Sure, I could appreciate it from a story or technical point-of-view, but it could never get me in my feels the way it did my female counterparts. Where I saw another hero blocking bullets, they saw a woman standing, against and for men, for what she knew was right. The largely underrepresented female, superhero-watching audience was finally seeing a woman exhibit such heroics on the big screen.

“Those who complain about representation, are the ones who’ve always been represented”.

Like most sane people, I love Will Smith. I grew up on Fresh Prince of Bel-Air reruns, then came the Men in Blacks, Hitch, Hancock, I, Robot etc. He was a movie star, he did it all: action, drama, comedy, sci-fi. To me, he was the movie star. I would go on to, harshly, learn that he wasn’t the norm, but the exception.

I was now seeing the ubiquity of white movie and tv stars, I now noticed that beyond the handful of black movie stars, people with my skin colour were criminally underrepresented. This was weird because I was living in a country (Nigeria) where everyone had my skin colour. So, to a young boy who was falling in love with the arts, the idea quickly became, only white people get that shot and maybe a handful of Black Americans, but even then, they definitely still gotta tell the white man’s story.

Which brings us to 2018. A year in which I get to see an African King and a black teenage girl save the world. An African King and a Black Teenage Girl! Many have criticised the hype for Black Panther, with some stating that the importance of the movie is being overstated by its fans. “Y'all acting like this movie gonna solve racism”.

I do not think the importance of these movies can be overstated.

Black Panther is a big budget superhero film that focuses on an African nation, its king and citizens. It features an impressive, predominantly black (and beautiful) cast. This cast not only boasts talented actors with strong African backgrounds (Lupita Nyong'o, Daniel Kaluuya and Danai Gurira) but it also includes actors based in Africa, not least of whom is the South African legend, John Kani. Twenty years ago, a convergence of all these factors would have seemed nearly impossible.

A Wrinkle in Time, in its own right, conquers its own fair share of impossibilities. In keeping with a career that continually breaks new ground while affecting change, Ava DuVernay now brings a sci-fi, Disney, epic with a brown skinned girl as its heroine. Who would have thought? Even in a world where Katniss Everdeen and Hermione Granger became household names and shot their respective actresses to bona-fide movie star status, such a movie still seemed impossible.

Ava DuVernay has not shied away from the fact that this is new ground for everyone. I’ll admit that I am not familiar with the original 1963 novel and its ensuing legacy (it wasn’t high on our literary lists in Nigeria). But boy am I excited. In creating this film that will inevitably be a sea change moment, Miss DuVernay has surrounded herself with notable producers (Catherine Hand and Tendo Nagenda), the writer and co-director of Frozen, Jennifer Lee and a cast that includes Mindy Kaling, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Michael Pena and Oprah Winfrey (playing an all-knowing being, because, duh) along with Chris Pine and Zach Galifianakis rounding out the cast.

As mentioned earlier, A Wrinkle in Time’s heroine is a brown skinned teenage girl. However, this was not always the case. In the original novel, Meg Murry is white. Here she is portrayed by newcomer Storm Reid. Miss DuVernay has continually referenced her desire to create new worlds and how, expectedly, these worlds would be different from what her white and male counterparts would envision. The effect such inclusion could possibly have cannot be overstated.

Really, is that not what we hope for? What we all want? That inclusivity. A world in which a young girl can look at a big budget Disney movie poster and see herself as the heroine.  A world in which we get Angela Bassett finally playing a queen. Where young brown and black skinned girls, and maybe just as importantly young boys, can see that girls can save the world too.  The same world where the great Forrest Whittaker admits to carrying out extensive research on the Yorubas in order to bring authenticity to his role. This world only has positives. It provides filmmakers with more diverse voices, from different backgrounds, the opportunity to share their visions. All sorts of stories are told in this world and everyone gets to be represented. Such inclusion can only lead to better, well-informed stories and more opportunities for people too often left in the fringes.

In their introductory scene from Captain America: Civil War, King T’Chaka (John Kani) and his son, T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) speak “isiXhosa” (A South African language). This was not originally in the script, it was an input from John Kani. This input led to a scene in a Hollywood film in which two actors are speaking isiXhosa and neither of them is a warlord nor an internet scammer. It might not seem like much, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s huge.

It just goes to show that the inclusion of diverse voices behind and in front of the camera bleeds its benefits in such subtle and wide-ranging ways. Some of these benefits may not be visible to the lay man but they mean the world to those marginalized groups.

At the premiere of Black Panther, John Kani gushed about the “seriousness” of the movie and why he wanted to show Africa and its denizens in a different light. To deal with the myth that “if the white colonialists did not land in Africa, we’ll still be walking in skins…”. Frankly, that’s a cause we can all rally behind.

Now, no one is saying that things are automatically fixed or that change has happened, we are definitely still some ways off but it’s a hell of time to be alive. What we need to then do, is not falter but use these burgeoning changes as catalysts for a much larger attack on the status quo.

While the eventual quality of both Black Panther and A Wrinkle in Time is not the driving force of this article, I would be remiss if I did not mention that in the hands of Ryan Coogler and Ava Duvernay, I feel little reason to fret about the outcome. They are two filmmakers that made instant splashes with their unique visions in Fruitvale Station and Creed (Coogler) and Selma and 13th (DuVernay). I’m not sure I trust any two people to better understand the importance of the positions they have been placed in and the need for success.  They are not only capable of delivering the goods, they are more than deserving of the opportunity. They, it seems, live their lives by that mantra that we, as minorities have stuck in our psyche.

Would it be a stretch to draw a line between the release and adoration of Wonder Woman and the rise of female empowerment (#MeToo, Time’s Up) in 2017? Probably. Could I make the argument to you after some shots of Vodka? Most likely. The point is that change starts from all sorts of weird places and all we can do is hope. Hope that the change is not stifled by its location but given the space and support to grow. So yes, I’ll be with my tickets opening weekends of Black Panther and A Wrinkle in Time hoping that this is the beginning of some form of change in Hollywood that would hopefully grow and spread to the larger world.

Bankole Imoukhuede

[bwthornton]

#Easter #Saturday #stratforduponavon today two performances of RSC and Fugard Theatre Kunene and the King by John Kani directed by Janice Honeyman at the Swan Theatre Stratford #Theatre #Theater

https://stratford-upon-avon-theatre.blogspot.com/2019/03/rsc-and-fugard-theatre-kunene-and-king.html