Disney’s LIVE Action Mulan doesn’t officially come to Disney+ until Friday, September 4th, and the biggest question is, is the film worth your hard-earned money? Well, we were able to check out the film early and have an answer for you!
The Background Of Mulan
Mulan tells the story of Hua Mulan, a young Chinese girl who has chosen to take the place of her ailing father in the Imperial Army. By disguising herself as a man and his son, Hua Jun, Mulan is able to help defend her homeland against an invading army.
Disney has released a few other live-action versions of their popular cartoon films – Cinderella, The Jungle Book, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Dumbo, and The Lion King to name a few – most of which have been trash. Then, going into Mulan, knowing that the film will not be a musical, there’s no Li-Shan, no Mushu, no Cricky – the odds don’t seem in its favor.
Can It Succeed Without The Animated Characters?
HOWEVER, sorry Mushu, there is no dishonor here! I cannot completely put into words how INCREDIBLE this film is, but I’m gonna try. There are quite a few more major changes from the original 1998 cartoon and each and every single one is a fantastic choice. There are also quite a few nods to the original film as well.
In Mulan (2020), Mulan’s father (Tzi Ma) teaches a young Mulan how to harness and wield her Ch’i before being forced to squash it down to assume the gender role that has been forced upon her. Qi or Ch’i is a huge part of Traditional Chinese Culture and is believed to be a vital force forming part of any living identity. FUN FACT: it’s what George Lucas based the Force on in Star Wars.
And let’s talk about the Costumes and makeup! These teams paid so much attention to detail making sure to get the authenticity correct. Starting with Mulan’s makeup when meeting the match-maker and the gilded silks, to Xianniang’s gold, bird-like outfit, the weapons the soldiers’ yield, and the armor they wear.
If you’ve read this far and still don’t know if spending the $30 for Mulan on Disney+ is worth it, let me just say live-action MULAN IS WORTH EVERY SINGLE PENNY THEY ARE ASKING! I absolutely loved this film! I will still pay $30 on Friday. If Mulan comes to theaters I’ll pay to see it, and I will buy it when it hits other purchasable streaming platforms.
Run, don’t walk to your couch, grab your snacks, and enjoy!
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