Watch Mulan

The Disney film Mulan is a classic film that will entertain adults and children alike. The basic idea for the character Mulan is based loosely on an ancient Chinese story of Hau Mulan. Hau Mulan was reported to be one of many women who joined the military masquerading as men. In the animated version, Mulan is a young heroine on the brink of womanhood who feels as though she is has dishonored her family. This is largely due to the fact that she did abysmally in her meeting with the town matchmaker while her further headstrong actions publicly embarrassed her father.

The story takes place during a Hun invasion of China. Mulan's father--a war hero-- is called out to fight and defend the country against the northern invaders. However, Mulan realizes that her father is no longer the young man he was when he fought in the previous war and is in no condition to be on the front lines again. Sorrow for her own failures and concern for her father drive Mulan to cut her hair, don her fathers old uniform and leave to take his place in the armed forces.

Mulan is accompanied on her journey by a miniature guardian dragon named Mushu as well as her “lucky” cricket. Upon arriving at the camp, Mulan begins to realize that maybe she jumped into this adventure feet first as she struggles to make friends and complete the training that is required of her all while protecting her true identity. Despite several pitfalls Mulan is able to connect to her fellow comrades and even impress her commanding officer. These loyalties end up being questioned when Mulan's identity is discovered. Her discovery and dishonor cause Mulan to question her motives and even herself as a person. She must overcome her own self doubts when the city is attacked and she is needed in order to save the lives of not only her comrades but the emperor himself.

The artists who worked on the film studied Chinese culture for several years ensuring that the graphics for Mulan would be as detailed and accurate as possible. At some point they even traveled to China to get a firm grasp of Chinese architecture and style. The soundtrack also sets the tone and makes the viewer feel more connected to the characters and what they are experiencing.