When the classic Disney princess comes to mind people typically imagine flowing gowns, towering castles, handsome princes, and damsels in distress. However, Mulan is the exception to this typical princess formula or pattern that Disney has relied on. This tale consists of the “princess” saving herself and others, with bravery and courage, instead of waiting for a prince to save her. This story of determination, self-acceptance, and feminism will now be produced into a live-action movie by Disney studios.
Mulan is based on the historical figure, Hua Mulan a legendary woman warrior from ancient China. In the Disney version Mulan faces many obstacles and difficulties because she is different from other young women; she is impulsive, graceless, not docile, unconforming, and has a strong personality. This cause her trouble when the times come for her match to be made and a husband found, causing her family to be disgraced and her to doubt herself. Then a war declaration comes, ordering one male from every family to join the army. Since, her father is too old to go Mulan disguises herself as a male and joins the army, a crime punishable by death. After this she faces many obstacles, and embarks on the task of saving herself, her father, and her country.
Many animated movies have be changed into live action versions ; both in the past and recently. Some examples are Maleficent, Peter Pan, Snow White and the Huntsman, The Jungle Book, Alice and Wonderland. These movies have made huger splashes at the box office and earned huge profits, and the makers of the new Mulan movie probably wish to market off of this trend.
The casting of the movie has already caused a huge controversy and debate, even though no one has been casted yet. Many are saying that actors of Chinese descent must be cast for the movie to remain true to the animated movie, and more importantly history. They fear if a Chinese actor is not cast it will be another case of “whitewashing.” A fake announcement stating that Scarlett Johansen and Chris Hemsworth would be cast in main roles caused a huge uproar. Actresses actually being considered for the role of Mulan are Constance Wu, Arden Cho, Kimiko Lucy Lui, and Wei Zhoa. Actors being considered for the male lead, Li-Shang, are Godfrey Goa and Yoshi Sudraso.
Many are excited to see their favorite characters come to life on screen. Chein Po the friendly, teddy-bear like character who loves food and everyone is a much anticipated character. Other anticipated characters are Mushu and Cricket, both of whom are a dragon and a cricket, who add a considerable amount of humor to the plot. Many are wondering how these characters will be transferred into a live-action version; they may be converted into human characters or at the very worst cut from the plot.
The movie will not be like the typical princess film, and not just because of Mulan’s feminist actions, but because it revolves around war and warfare. The live action version of the film will most likely have a lot of action and fighting. This will make the movie more interesting and attract a wider range of audiences by offering something enjoyable to all. However, this may also not happen because it’s a Disney movie, and will probably need to retain a G rating.
The setting of the movie will add an interesting and unique aspect to the live-action film. If the movie is actually set in China, as it should be in order to remain realistic the affect will be stunning. The movie will introduce the country of China to many viewers who have never seen it before. Hopefully producers will take full advantage of the country’s beautiful landscape and variety.
To many this live-action version of Mulan is a dream come true, as children Mulan was the favorite princess of many children. She taught young girls and boys, about self-determination, bravery, self-acceptance, and feminism. Hopefully, it will remind viewers of these lessons again, while at the same time teaching another generation. However, this will only be possible if Disney remains true to the culture and history associated with the plot, so here’s to hoping they don’t screw it up and ruin a childhood favorite.