Mulan (2020): A Modern Reinterpretation of a Classic Tale
ideologically. Originally released as an animated film in 1998, Mulan became an iconic Disney classic, not just for its catchy songs and captivating animation, but also for its depiction of a strong female protagonist who defies the societal expectations of her time. The 2020 live-action remake, directed by Niki Caro, is an ambitious attempt to breathe new life into this tale by blending the old with the new. However, this new version diverges significantly from its animated predecessor, adapting the narrative to reflect contemporary values and addressing various modern cinematic trends. In this article, we will explore the development, cultural aspects, artistic choices, and reception of Mulan (2020), as well as how it compares to the original animated classic.
The Evolution from Animation to Live Action
The journey to bring Mulan to life in a live-action format began long before 2020. Disney’s increasing trend of adapting its animated classics into live-action films started in earnest with Alice in Wonderland (2010) and was followed by Cinderella (2015), The Jungle Book (2016), and Beauty and the Beast (2017). These adaptations often took creative liberties, updating the original stories to suit modern sensibilities while maintaining a core connection to the original animated films. Mulan, however, presented a unique challenge.
The 1998 animated version was heavily influenced by Chinese culture but remained tailored to a Western audience. It was a musical comedy that featured some fictionalized aspects of the story for entertainment value, such as the character Mushu, a comedic dragon voiced by Eddie Murphy. In contrast, the live-action adaptation aimed to present a more serious, authentic, and grounded take on the classic legend of Hua Mulan, which is based on the Chinese poem The Ballad of Mulan, one of the oldest and most beloved pieces of Chinese literature.
A Shift Toward Authenticity
One of the primary motivations behind Mulan (2020) was to offer a more authentic representation of Chinese culture, stepping away from the lighter and more comedic tones of the original animated film. The movie made a deliberate choice to remove the musical numbers and the character of Mushu, opting instead for a more serious and dramatic approach. The absence of these iconic elements was a bold decision that left many fans of the original wondering how the film would fare without them.
In place of the traditional humor and songs, the 2020 version emphasizes the martial arts traditions and the cultural heritage of China. The film’s tone is more aligned with epic historical dramas rather than family-friendly animation. The film, set in ancient China, follows the journey of Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her sick father’s place in the Emperor’s army, thereby fulfilling her duty to her family and her country. The film’s focus on warrior training, family honor, and the pursuit of personal strength aligns with traditional Chinese values and history, making the film feel more like an epic war drama than a fantastical children’s adventure.
The Lead Performance: Liu Yifei as Mulan
The casting of the lead role of Mulan was one of the most significant aspects of the film’s production. Disney chose Chinese actress Liu Yifei, also known as Crystal Liu, to portray the iconic character. Liu was already a well-known figure in China, with a strong acting career in both television and film, and she had starred in several successful productions prior to her role as Mulan.
Liu’s portrayal of Mulan was widely praised for bringing depth and sincerity to the character. Rather than relying on humor or a whimsical demeanor, Liu’s Mulan is serious, introspective, and resolute. She displays an inner strength that comes not from magic or external help, but from her own determination and personal growth. This made her character more relatable to modern audiences, particularly in a world where female empowerment and breaking through societal barriers are central themes.
The Supporting Cast and Characters
While Liu Yifei’s performance as Mulan was the centerpiece, the film also featured a talented supporting cast. Donnie Yen, a martial arts legend, played Commander Tung, a leader in the Emperor’s army who becomes Mulan’s mentor. Yen brought his expertise in martial arts and action choreography, elevating the film’s action sequences. Other notable cast members included Jet Li as the Emperor of China, Gong Li as Xian Lang, a powerful witch who serves as the antagonist, and Jason Scott Lee as Bori Khan, the film’s primary villain.
One of the significant additions to the story in the 2020 adaptation was the character of Xian Lang, who was created specifically for the live-action version. Played by Gong Li, Xian Lang is a shape-shifting witch who sides with Bori Khan in his mission to overthrow the Emperor. This character added a supernatural element to the film, which was in stark contrast to the film’s otherwise grounded narrative. Xian Lang’s role as an antagonist drew parallels to Mulan, as both characters were women fighting for recognition and autonomy in a patriarchal society, although their paths diverged in opposing ways.
The Visual and Artistic Style
Visually, Mulan (2020) is a stunning cinematic achievement. Director Niki Caro and cinematographer Mandy Walker worked together to create a film that combined the beauty of the Chinese landscape with grand action sequences. The film was shot on location in China and New Zealand, utilizing breathtaking natural settings that enhanced the epic scale of the story. The sweeping landscapes, towering mountains, and vast fields of wildflowers gave the film an air of grandeur that mirrored the vastness of the journey Mulan undertakes.
The costumes in Mulan also played a crucial role in reflecting the cultural authenticity of the story. Designed by Bina Daigeler, the wardrobe choices helped to showcase the historical accuracy of the era, with intricate details that referenced traditional Chinese fashion. The military uniforms, the silk robes, and the warrior attire worn by Mulan all told a visual story about the cultural context of the period.
The action sequences were another area where the film stood out. The martial arts choreography was meticulously crafted to show the physical prowess and strength of the characters, especially Mulan, as she learns to fight and gain the respect of her peers. The use of wire work and stylized combat helped create a visually appealing, albeit fantastical, approach to the battle scenes.
The Themes: Honor, Family, and Self-Discovery
At its core, Mulan (2020) revolves around universal themes of honor, family, and self-discovery. Mulan’s journey is motivated by a desire to protect her family and uphold her father’s honor, but it also becomes a story of personal growth and finding her true identity. Unlike many of Disney’s princess films, Mulan does not follow the traditional love story arc, which was a deliberate move by the filmmakers. Instead, the film focuses on Mulan’s development as a warrior and her evolution from a young girl unsure of herself to a woman who embraces her strength and her destiny.
One of the film’s most powerful messages is that true honor comes not from conforming to societal expectations, but from being true to oneself. Mulan’s decision to disguise herself as a man and fight in the army represents a rejection of the traditional gender roles that have been imposed upon her. Throughout the film, Mulan challenges the idea that women are weaker or less capable than men, and her ultimate victory serves as a powerful message of empowerment.
The Reception and Controversies
The release of Mulan (2020) was met with a great deal of anticipation, but it also faced significant controversy and mixed reviews. The film’s production was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to its delayed release and a shift from a traditional theatrical release to a streaming release on Disney+. The film was made available for a premium price on Disney+ in September 2020, a move that received criticism for its high cost, particularly during a time when many families were financially strained due to the pandemic.
Another point of contention was the film’s portrayal of Chinese culture. Despite the filmmakers’ attempts to be more authentic, the movie faced backlash from some Chinese viewers who felt that certain aspects of the film were still too Westernized. There were also criticisms regarding the film’s treatment of China’s political issues, particularly concerning the film’s filming in regions that are sensitive due to their political implications, such as the Xinjiang province, which is embroiled in human rights controversies. Some actors involved in the film, including Liu Yifei, also faced public criticism for their perceived political statements, further complicating the film’s reception.
Critics were divided on whether Mulan (2020) successfully captured the spirit of the original animated film or if it fell short in comparison. Some praised the film for its commitment to cultural authenticity, epic storytelling, and strong performances, while others lamented the absence of the animated film’s charm, humor, and musical elements. Nevertheless, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $70 million worldwide, although it did not reach the same level of box-office success as other Disney live-action adaptations.
Conclusion
Mulan (2020) is a striking reimagining of Disney’s classic animated film, offering a more authentic and culturally respectful take on the legendary Chinese warrior. By removing the whimsical elements of the original and focusing on serious themes of honor, family, and self-discovery, the film distinguishes itself from its predecessor. The movie’s breathtaking visuals, martial arts choreography, and Liu Yifei’s compelling performance as Mulan have made it a memorable addition to Disney’s live-action film library. However, its departure from the musical elements and its handling
