Barry Jenkins creates a family on his films, and I felt welcomed by designer Mark Friedberg as Key Art Director. Mark became a mentor, giving me the freedom to take on character design on top of my usual focus of sets. Barry’s stories are always personal. Mufasa’s childhood world is full of life but also fears. A stark and ever expanding chase across African ecosystems describes his transformation. Three teens lead the cast, their faces carrying the torch of families lost. This was a project of beauty, tragedy and heroics all in one. A special project.