Release order
Begin with the 1994 animated film for the original theatrical telling. Watch the 2019 version as a separate interpretation, then Mufasa for that version’s backstory.
A story across generations
The circle widens
with every telling.
The 1994 animated film and the 2019 screen remake tell versions of the same central story. Mufasa then explores an earlier generation in the remake’s continuity, giving this guide two clear ways to watch.
The Lion King1994–2024About 5 hours
Before you press play
Two ways in.
One great journey.
Story order
The animated original stands on its own. In the newer screen continuity, Mufasa’s main backstory comes before The Lion King (2019), though its framing looks back from later events. This is an editorial whole-film order.
The films / 3 theatrical releases
The Lion King
Your viewing guide.
Release order · US theatrical dates where available. Story order is an editorial viewing suggestion.
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The Lion King
A young lion’s family story in the original theatrical animation.
Directed by Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff
With Matthew Broderick, Moira Kelly, Jeremy IronsUS theatrical release:
Search Amazon for Blu-ray for The Lion King (opens in a new tab)Paid link · Search resultsCheck the film, disc format, included cuts, and US playback compatibility.
The Lion King
A later screen interpretation of the same central story.
Directed by Jon Favreau
With Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Oliver, Donald GloverUS theatrical release:
Search Amazon for Blu-ray for The Lion King (opens in a new tab)Paid link · Search resultsCheck the film, disc format, included cuts, and US playback compatibility.
Mufasa: The Lion King
A prequel backstory within the newer screen continuity.
Directed by Barry Jenkins
With Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Tiffany BooneUS theatrical release:
Search Amazon for Blu-ray for Mufasa: The Lion King (opens in a new tab)Paid link · Search resultsCheck the film, disc format, included cuts, and US playback compatibility.
Guide notes & sources
Editorial review: . Released theatrical features only; television, shorts, direct-to-video titles, and unreleased films are excluded. Story order follows each whole film’s main narrative. This guide is not a content rating or age recommendation.
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