In what feels like centuries ago, I attended the Mulan live world premiere at the Dolby Theater back in March. Back at that time, the movie was set to release a few weeks later towards the end of March but unfortunately since the Pandemic decided to stick its ugly head around, this movie release date has been pushed back repeatedly until Disney decided to make the decision to stream it digitally to Disney + users for a $30 price tag. I heard from a lot of readers and friends that they didn’t know if they should purchase this and with resounding confidence I say ABSOLUTELY! As most of you know, I am a Disney fanatic and I can tell you that I believe this is one of the best live action films Disney has made to date. Yes I am saying that to all of you without a bit of hesitation.
I rewatched the original Mulan because I have gotten asked a lot how this movie compares to the original. I will say while a lot of the plot is similar, there is distinct differences between the two. As a film aficionado, I will say that if a live action follows their predecessor, I happen to find that boring. This movie switches things up while leaving the same plot of women power, strength, and inspiration seen time and time again. The live action film takes a more realistic approach of her fighting in the battles and seeing how her strength comes to win in the end. You will also see there is no Mushu, who I didn’t even realize was missing till I watched the original again. You do see the Phoenix show up and a new character, Xianniang, who does some amazing shape shifting in this film and shows up as the new villainous character.
Photo credit; Disney pictures
One thing that struck me about this Mulan reinvented is the amazing visuals, character development, and incredible action scenes from start to end. While you would think war would prohibit young watchers to view this movie, I can assure you there is not much gore at all, and I honestly think it is appropriate for even the youngest of kids to watch. The battle scenes are incredible and devoid of blood/gore that you see in typical war scenes.
Mulan was not only beautiful but has a powerful message that is seen time and time again. That is of letting a woman have power and not be afraid to show that power. As seen in the original, Mulan is the most powerful figure but I think this movie shows that even more. When Mulan finally comes out at the end and showcases she is a woman to the men, my kids actually had tears in their eyes. My girls saw that women and girls can be beautiful princesses but be amazing powerful people at that. Mulan was just that. It was inspirational to the younger generation and awe-inspiring to the older generation.
Mulan was not a musical and I was happy about that. There are parts of music delved in to stir up emotions but it is not your typical song/dance movie. Mulan tells the story of Mulan and tells it in such a beautiful and telling way. Mulan has parts that will make you laugh (and laugh hard) and parts that make you cry (and cry hard). The performances of Mulan are beautiful and the movie is definitely one that is worth buying, when it starts streaming live today. I know it is a high price tag for a movie but this movie is one where you will own forever, and it is a movie that can span many generations. I give Mulan 4.5 /5 stars!
Photo credit: Disney pictures
SYNOPSIS:
Acclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro brings the epic tale of China’s legendary warrior to life in Disney’s “Mulan,” in which a fearless young woman risks everything out of love for her family and her country to become one of the greatest warriors China has ever known. When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honored warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation…and a proud father.
CAST:
“Mulan” features a celebrated international cast that includes: Yifei Liu as Mulan; Donnie Yen as Commander Tung; Tzi Ma as Zhou, Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan; Yoson An as Honghui; Ron Yuan as Sergeant Qiang; with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor. The film is directed by Niki Caro from a screenplay by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Lauren Hynek & Elizabeth Martin, suggested by the narrative poem “The Ballad of Mulan.” The producers are Chris Bender, Jake Weiner and Jason Reed, with Bill Kong, Barrie M. Osborne, Tim Coddington and Mario Iscovich serving as executive producers.
Disney+ will offer Premier Access to “Mulan” for $29.99 on disneyplus.com. Once you have Premier Access to Mulan, you can watch as many times as you want on any platform where Disney+ is available.