Animated musical prequel directed by Barry Jenkins. Mandrill Rafiki (voice of John Kani) tells Mufasa (Aaron Pierre)'s granddaughter Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter) the story of her grandfather and his best friend Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.). Separated from his parents during a flash-flood, Mufasa is saved by Taka and taken in by his family.

When they are attacked by a vicious pride of lions called the Outsiders, Mufasa fights back, but Taka's father sends the two young lions in search of a new home. During their journey, they meet Sarabi (Tiffany Boone), a brave lionness. She and Mufasa fall in love but as the trio are pursued by the Outsiders, who seek to eliminate all challengers to their tyrannical rule, Taka becomes increasingly resentful of Mufasa's innate goodness, strength and nobility.