In Ancient China, a woman disguises herself as a man
in order to join the Chinese army in her father's place. FAMILY/MUSICAL/WAR
|
Mulan (1998)Directed by Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook
Written by Rita Hsiao, Chris Sanders, Philip LaZebnik, Raymond Singer, Eugenia Bostwick-Singer Starring Ming-Na Wen, Eddie Murphy, BD Wong, Miguel Ferrer, James Hong, Harvey Fierstein, Gedde Watanabe, Jerry Tondo, Pat Morita, George Takei, Soon-Tek Oh, June Foray Based on the Chinese legend Oscar Nominations - Best Original Score (Jerry Goldsmith) |
Mulan is one of Disney's best, breaking down the Disney norm and making the princess and the hero the same person. This film stands out amongst the others in Disney's second golden age and has since become a family classic.
The tale of Mulan is one of strength, courage, honor, and family. This Disney film goes to great lengths to tell it as realistically as possible (minus Mushu the dragon and the ancestors' ghosts, of course). This Disney has Ancient Chinese sexism, bloody battle wounds, explosive fiery death, and even Mulan's obvious breasts, which are actually needed for the story. In the grand scheme of Disney flicks, this one is arguably the most adult they ever got. The songs are some of their best as well, most notably "Reflection" and "I'll Make a Man Out of You." In many ways, this was Disney's last great musical until Frozen came along. I've loved Mulan since I was a child and I'm sure I'm not alone. It's a Disney classic and will stand the test of time. |