Disney’s much-anticipated prequel, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” has roared into Nigerian cinemas, grossing an impressive N64 million during its opening weekend.
The film not only claimed the title of the highest-grossing Hollywood release of the weekend but also delivered the strongest live-action debut in Nigeria for 2024.
Distributed by FilmOneNG, the photorealistic animated movie has captivated audiences across the country, standing out in a festive season crowded with both local and international titles.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, “Mufasa” serves as both a prequel and sequel to Disney’s 2019 “The Lion King” remake.
The film features returning stars like Donald Glover, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, and John Kani, alongside newcomers Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Thandiwe Newton, and Mads Mikkelsen. Notably, it marks Blue Ivy Carter’s debut in a feature film role.
While the film boasts a star-studded cast, it received mixed critical reviews, earning a 56% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, audiences have been more favorable, awarding it an “A-” CinemaScore, indicating strong approval from moviegoers.
Despite its Nigerian success, “Mufasa: The Lion King” has faced challenges in international markets. In the U.S., the film opened with $13.3 million on its first day but is projected to finish the weekend with a modest $33-37 million. Globally, it has so far grossed $33 million across 54 markets, bringing its total to $46.3 million.
The film’s global performance is further complicated by stiff competition, particularly from “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” which has yet to debut in overseas markets.
In Nigeria, “Mufasa” is a significant player in the holiday film season, where it faces stiff competition from both Nollywood and other international productions. The film’s robust opening weekend demonstrates the increasing appetite for global cinematic experiences among Nigerian audiences, even as ticket prices rise.
As “Mufasa” continues its rollout to additional markets, its international success remains uncertain. While the film’s strong Nigerian debut underscores its appeal in Africa, its global box office results will determine whether it can meet Disney’s broader expectations.
