The live action adaptation of Mulan has created buzz in the media with mixed reviews. The new version is very different from the 1998 Disney animation film. Characters have changed, some removed, some added, and some completely renovated. There are also name changes and roles of the beloved animated characters as well as the complete disappearance of musicality of any kind. However, there were some connections tied to the Disney animation.
The live action film replaces many characters and character roles. Mushu, the comedic little dragon whose purpose is to protect and guide Mulan, was scraped out and replaced with a Phoenix guardian. Shun Yu, the barbaric chief of the Huns, was replaced with Bori Khan and the Shadow Army. And General Li Shang, Mulan’s animated love interest, was replaced with General Tung. The love interest shifted over to fellow soldier Chen Honghui, although the love connection was incredibly subtle.
The family name was also changed from Fa to Hua, which is the correct name according to some variated legends of Mulan.
Unlike the animated film, the live action adaptation includes themes of dark magic, and Qi (which Mulan possesses naturally rather than working hard to become a merited warrior). New characters also appear such as Mulan’ sister Hua Xiu, and a shapeshifting witch named Xian Lang.
This adaptation resembles more of the actual Chinese folklore of Mulan rather than the animated film.
The dialogue is somewhat stiff and minimal; the movie heavily relies on the atmosphere rather than words. When watching, one can see that some of the stunts are not as smooth as others. While the technology used to create the stunts are not visible, it is noticeable that the actors are being pulled and objects being mechanically flung into the air. The capabilities of modern Hollywood magic were not fully utilized in this film.
As far as music, two recognizable songs in the film are “Reflection” and “Honor to Us All.” Christina Aguilera also reprised her cover of the song “Reflection” and recorded an original song “Loyal Brave True” for the soundtrack. The Mulan actress, Liu Yifei, also recorded a cover of “Reflection” in Mandarin.
However, the 2020 film highlights some of the most odd and beautiful terrains of China. The stunning shots of the different environments of China are breathtaking.
Overall, the 2020 Mulan film is beautiful, breathtaking and exemplifies feminism, bravery and loyalty for one another even if it goes against social expectations.
