“Mufasa: The Lion King” Falls Short at the Box Office with $35 Million Domestic Debut

Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” failed to make an impact at the domestic box office, debuting with a disappointing $35 million and losing the top spot to Paramount’s “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” in a pre-holiday showdown.

Despite its lukewarm domestic performance, the film fared better overseas, raking in $87 million internationally and achieving a global opening total of $122 million. However, with a hefty production budget exceeding $200 million, the prequel faces an uphill battle to recoup its costs.

Directed by Oscar-winner Barry Jenkins, best known for “Moonlight” and “If Beale Street Could Talk,” “Mufasa” marks the most expensive yet lowest-rated project of his career. The film holds a “rotten” 57% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, though audiences seem more forgiving, awarding it an 89% audience score and an A- CinemaScore. Still, these figures pale in comparison to the 2019 “Lion King” live-action remake, which opened to $450 million globally and ultimately grossed over $1.6 billion.

“Mufasa” features an all-star cast, including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. Her daughter, Blue Ivy, also makes her acting debut in the film. While the movie’s holiday run might boost its numbers through repeat viewings, the underwhelming debut raises questions about its appeal compared to its predecessors.

For now, “Mufasa” will need international markets and sustained holiday momentum to close the gap on its steep budget.