Category: Reviews

Overview: During an impending Hun invasion in China, a young maiden secretly takes her father’s place in the army. 1998; Buena Vista Pictures; G; 87 minutes Disney’s Heroine: Mulan breaks away from the Disney norm by showcasing a strong female character doing most of the heavy lifting, setting her apart from most Disney princesses. She really isn’t interested in finding true love or chasing her dreams. Heck, the only reason she attends a matchmaker at the start of the movie is to make her family happy by bringing them honor. She’s a compelling and complicated character because of her inner conflicts of honor and identity. Disney breaks down the gender barrier here. Mulan, spurred by love and compassion for others, actually goes out to make a difference, and it’s her intelligence and strength that saves the day. She’s more defined by the things she accomplishes than her desires, and that makes her one of the best characters Disney has ever produced. Family Tradition: Several recognizable Disney staples are seamlessly woven into the film, such as the use of an animal sidekick. In Mulan, Eddie Murphy is a stand out as Mushu. He provides entertaining comic relief, but his character has a surprising story arc of his own that runs parallel to Mulan’s. Disney put extra care in handling supporting characters whom viewers would normally dismiss as stereotypes. They do...