I realize I may be in the minority here when I say I don’t normally love Disney’s Live-Action Remakes.

 

As of late, I typically don’t understand the point of recreating classic Disney animated films. Take 2019’s The Lion King for example — it’s essentially a shot-for-shot remake of the 1994 animated version, just now with fancy CGI. In my humble opinion, the remakes are never going to be better than the original. Sure, I’ve enjoyed my theater going experiences at Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast, but I didn’t LOVE them. But I’d rather Disney spend that creativity and money to bring to life NEW stories for us to love.

That’s why when Disney announced a recreation of Mulan, I was less than enthused. I was afraid they’d cast a lead who couldn’t sing again (sorry Emma Watson), or perhaps make some weird CGI dragon. Turns out — I didn’t have to worry about either of those things, considering 2020’s Mulan doesn’t feature music OR zippy sidekicks. This caught my interest. Without Mushu or “I’ll Make a Man Out of You”, this certainly wasn’t going to be shot-for-shot the same as the 1998 animated film.

When Disney announced that amidst the current health crisis, Mulan would be released on Disney+ for a $29.99 premium, I initially thought was a little steep. Mulling it over however, I realized for my husband and I to go see it in theaters, tickets alone would be $30 — and that’s before I buy snacks on snacks.

After seeing the preview at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I was pumped for the film and happy to shell out the fee. The short clip was gorgeous — and I couldn’t help but feel for the cast and crew who poured their hearts into this film, only for it to pushed back and ultimately never make it to theaters (for the most part). I was reminded that most of these people are without jobs right now, so I figured even if the plot is terrible, at least it’s pretty — and in some small way I am contributing to the arts.  Not to mention this is a female directed and led film, and I’m all about ladies supporting ladies.

So on September 4th, I put on my Mulan t-shirt, popped some popcorn, snuggled up with Kronk, and clicked play. And 2 hours later, I was glad I did –for three main reasons — and one smaller one.

(SPOILER ALERT! While I am not going to reveal the ending or any major plot points, I will be sharing a few moments from the film to highlight my points. If you don’t want to know anything about the movie, I’d stop reading now until you’ve seen it.)

It’s Not a Musical, It’s a (Beautiful) Action Film

Many people were stunned (and angry!) that 2020’s Mulan isn’t a musical like its predecessor, but upon viewing, that’s one of my favorite things about the film. I liked that there are hints of the original’s iconic songs — you can hear notes of “Bring Honor to Us All” when Mulan is getting made up and “Reflection” when she succeeds in training camp. Her commander tells the troops they must be “tranquil as the forest” as a nod to “I’ll Make a Man Out of You.”

This movie is far more adult and serious than the cartoon, and for me, it would have seemed out of place for the characters to sing. Plus, if they’re going to make two Mulans, I want them to be different. 

In exchange for music, we are gifted incredible action. Some moments reminded me of Lord of the Rings, others Game of Thrones, and many times I found myself cheering or gaping at the TV — especially if it was Mulan who had just done something amazing. I’ll admit, there are a few moments where the moves looks fake (particularly at the end where I wish they had done less CGI), but for the most part, the action is well choreographed and beautiful.

The Female Characters

You can’t talk about Mulan (either version) and not mention the fact that Mulan herself is ICONIC. She’s brave, fierce, and a true warrior.

In this version, it is known from the beginning that Mulan possesses an overwhelming amount of chi — which is the energy that allows her to be such an incredible warrior. When Mulan’s father tells her she must tone-down her chi, it was a moment every little girl who’s told they’re too bossy or outgoing will recognize (myself included) — meanwhile boys get to embrace their chi to become warriors (or be told they possess leadership skills).

It’s empowering to watch Mulan’s journey — from trying to hide her chi as a young woman meeting the matchmaker to a warrior who sheds her disguise and saves China (that’s not a spoiler, we all knew it would happen).

The film’s other main female character is a witch named Xianniang, who has teamed up with the Rorans, who have replaced the Huns as the villainous army in this version.

We learn early that Xianniang has joined the dark side out of necessity only — they were the only people who offer a witch any sense of power or freedom. She learns quickly that Böri Khan (the Rorans leader) sees her as a servant, which leads to interesting interactions, and a spiritual kinship with Mulan. I love a morally ambiguous character, and honestly wish we saw more of Xianniang.

It’s Gorgeous

This movie is STUNNING. The costumes, the landscapes, the colors — if nothing else, it’s a big ol’ bowl of eye candy. It’s a real shame this movie is being seen in people’s living rooms instead of the big screen like it was intended.

The scene when Mulan is getting made up for the matchmaker was particularly visually appealing, as are Director Niki Caro’s use of camera angles during the battle scenes and sweeping landscapes.

I don’t know what the Academy Award scene will be like this year, but I would be shocked if Mulan isn’t nominated in the cinematography category.

Cricket

Just like there’s no Mushu, there’s no Cri-kee, Mulan’s lucky bug from the original. But there is Cricket, a young solider Mulan befriends at training.

And I don’t want to be dramatic here, but I would take a bullet for Cricket.

He may not be as big of a deal as sweeping landscapes, female empowerment, or incredible action, but Cricket is adorable, loveable, and a wonderful secondary character.

 

While the animated version of the film is still superior, there was something wonderful about this new live-action take. It’s very different, which allows it to stand on its own. Instead of constantly comparing it to the original, I was able to view this as its own version of the story and embrace it for what it is.

There are callbacks to the animated classic to look out for as well — her iconic hair comb, her horse Khan’s casting was perfect, and Ming-Na Wen (the original voice of Mulan) even makes a cameo.

In my opinion, Mulan is worth the watch — even if that watch tacks on $30 to your Disney+ bill.

Have you seen Mulan on Disney+? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

 

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