The interview sessions with the duo, including the teaser posted by Walt Disney, have amassed more than 21 million views so far
Filipino music sensations Miguel and Paolo Benjamin of Ben&Ben recently had the honor of interviewing the creative minds and cast behind Disney’s latest masterpiece, Mufasa: The Lion King. Invited by Disney Philippines, the twin vocalists sat down with some of the industry’s most notable figures, including acclaimed director Barry Jenkins (Moonlight, If Beale Street Could Talk) and celebrated composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creative force behind the film’s memorable music.
The Benjamin brothers explored the magic of the film through an in-depth conversation with Jenkins and Miranda. Reflecting on his songwriting process, Miranda shared, “You just have to honor those impulses. It’s like having assignments—you daydream, think, listen, and then create this alchemy.” His insights highlighted the harmony of imagination and collaboration that brought Mufasa: The Lion King to life.
For Miguel and Paolo, the experience was not just professional but profoundly personal. “We felt a deep connection to the film’s theme of brotherhood, being twins who grew up incredibly close, much like Mufasa and Taka,” Miguel explained. “The opportunity to interact with such extraordinary storytellers in both film and music made it an unforgettable moment.”
The duo also spoke with cast members Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Tiffany Boone, who voice key characters in the movie. The interviews were filled with camaraderie, with Kelvin even encouraging Miguel and Paolo to perform a few lines from their hit song Leaves, earning delighted reactions from everyone in the room.
Despite being in the midst of rehearsals for their sold-out concert The Traveller Across Dimensions, the Benjamin brothers didn’t hesitate to seize the opportunity. “Representing the Philippines in this special interview was a great responsibility,” Paolo said. “We aimed to ask questions that allowed the cast and director to open up and share their unique experiences while working on the film. What stood out most was the bond between the entire team—it was like they were already family.”
The interviews quickly went viral, amassing over 5 million views across social media within a day. A teaser featuring Miguel and Paolo on Walt Disney’s official Facebook page garnered nearly 16 million views in just six days, underscoring the excitement surrounding the film.
A Cinematic Masterpiece
Mufasa: The Lion King merges live-action techniques with photorealistic CGI, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant story. Directed by Barry Jenkins, produced by Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen, the film’s unforgettable soundtrack features the genius of Lin-Manuel Miranda.
As the holiday season unfolds, Mufasa: The Lion King offers audiences a heartwarming cinematic experience that celebrates family, resilience, and the enduring power of storytelling.
Catch Mufasa: The Lion King now, showing in cinemas nationwide via Walt Disney Pictures.
