Mulan: 20 Years Later We Still Love Disney’s Fierce Heroine

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Attaching specific memories to Disney films isn’t something I have in my memory bank. Growing up, we had one day designated to movies. A day in which we could pick one of our VHS tapes and stay in to watch movies. Otherwise, our days were about school work and we were encouraged to play outside. Aside from knowing I did see Mulan as a kid, I don’t remember when for the first time I saw this one. What I do know is that this has always been one of Disney’s “newer” films in my mind. Imagine then my surprise when I realized this film turned twenty years old this year. It’s these little realizations that make me feel old. mulan

Mulan Film Review

In Mulan, we meet the awkward Mulan (voiced by Ming Na-Wen, who plays Agent May on Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D), a young woman who desperately needs to impress the Matchmaker. If she isn’t able to impress the woman and secure a good marriage, it will mean dishonor for her family. Unfortunately for Mulan, disaster is the result, and she walks away without a match. Her one chance to redeem herself presents itself when the Chinese army conscripts one man from every household. In consideration of her father’s failing health, Mulan impulsively decides to accept the commission. As her father and without his knowledge, she disguises her gender and fights to redeem honor to her family.

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I have no memories of seeing this film for the first time, but as I re-watched the movie, it felt like I was seeing it with fresh eyes. As an adult, I enjoy animated films, but they aren’t my typical cup of tea. Like musicals, I have to be in the right mood to want to revisit the cheesy gloriousness that is animated films. While its animation may not be as sharp as that of its peers today, Mulan is still a lovely experience.

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The animation in the film is quite striking. I don’t know the technical terms to describe it, but the coloring is beautiful (in particular the apple blossom scenes). It’s always reflective of the mood or experiences the scene should put the viewer in. The “movement” and perspectives aren’t always perfect, and yet regardless of this, it isn’t off-putting. Speaking in terms of production, this one is impressive and though much advancement has been made, creators deserve commendation for how they bring this world to life. Likewise, the music is gorgeous and fun. Similarly, the lighthearted teasing between Mulan’s comrades keeps things cheerful.

Who is that girl I see, staring straight back at me? / Why is my reflection someone I don’t know? / Somehow, I cannot hide / who I am, though I’ve tried / When will my reflection show / who I am, inside? / When will my reflection show / who I am, inside…

– Mulan

Perhaps the greatest appeal of this film is its tendency to rule break its plot. The story doesn’t conform to the typical Disney trademarks. Mulan isn’t a princess pining. Instead, she’s a spunky girl whose good intentions may lead to her demise. Don’t mistake me, I don’t find anything wrong with the Disney princess who do pine. This film however has a strong relationship thread between Mulan and her father. Even the mere thought of dishonoring him brings Mulan pain. Because it’s an animated film, this isn’t a deep dive into the bond between a father and daughter, but what’s there is sweet.

As I look back on this film and experience it through the eyes of an adult, it’s with confidence that I say Mulan is a favorite Disney film. Despite its plot and darker themes, Disney cannot hide its charms. It keeps to traditions by the introduction of a feisty heroine who also fits comfortably into today’s society. With whispers that a live-action adaptation of Mulan is in the works, if anything, revisiting this animated adventure is a reminder of the simmering excitement there is to experience this story in, what I know will be, an epic adaption.

Do you have a favorite memory of seeing Mulan? Is it among your favorite Disney films? Do you plan to re-watch this one for its anniversary? Sound off below with your thoughts on this film or the upcoming live-action film.

Where to watch: You can purchase Mulan on Amazon Video, DVD/Bluray or stream it through Netflix.

Content: there is a scary scene or two, and tense situations involving the war. Also, the villain, who is quite creepy, might be disturbing for young viewers. The film is rated G.

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