Mulan

Mulan is a 1998 animated feature film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures, based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan. The film is directed by Tony Bancroft and Berry Cook, featuring the voices of esteemed actors such as Ming-Na Wen, Eddie Murphy, BD Wong, and others.

The movie tells the story of Fa Mulan, voiced by Ming-Na Wen, a brave young woman who is unconventional and solemnly serious in the backdrop of the conformist society in ancient China. Mulan takes an audacious decision that sets the course for an exhilarating and emotional journey. Stemmed from her deep love for her family and her willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for them, Mulan decides to disguise herself as a man and enlists in the Imperial army in place of her ailing father. Her quick-wittedness and sheer determination make the plot engaging, entertaining, and also extraordinarily inspiring.

With the threat of Hun invasion looming over China, the Emperor decrees that one man from every family must serve the army. Mulan's father, despite his fragile health and ailing body owing to his age, is ready to obey the order. Mulan, unwilling to let her father face the grim fate that awaits him on the battlefields, impersonates a man and takes his place in the army.

In the whole process, Mulan is accompanied by a tiny dragon named Mushu, marvelously voiced by Eddie Murphy. Mushu, previously a guardian spirit of the Fa family, is demoted to awaken the ancestors after a mishap involving a statue of a previous family guardian. Quick-talking and easy-going, Mushu provides comic relief throughout the movie while adding a mythical touch to the storyline.

On starting her training in the army camp, Mulan meets Shang Li, the commander of her regimen voiced by BD Wong. Under Shang Li's strict training, Mulan and her comrades evolve from naïve recruits to disciplined soldiers, ready to face the Hun invasion. The film delves into war scenes that are colorful, bold and impactful while being comic and entertaining at the same time.

Mulan, despite the challenges and her struggle to maintain her disguise, continues on with the spirit of her mission. The movie, instead of portraying her as a flawless hero, presents a vulnerable and real character who experiences fear and uncertainty just like everyone else.

The movie brilliantly juxtaposes intense, action-packed scenes with softer and emotional ones. Mulan's refreshing relationships with her family, her blossoming camaraderie with her fellow soldiers, the budding romance with her commanding officer, and a distinctly special engagement with Mushu makes Mulan a deeply engaging narrative.

Ming-Na Wen's poignant and sincere performance mirrors the character's depth and complexity quite brilliantly. Eddie Murphy is hilarious in his part and Mushu's comic punchlines, exaggerated expressions, and Murphy's iconic delivery style captivates the audience thoroughly. BD Wong brings steady warmth to Captain Shang and adds to the authenticity of the story.

Throughout the film, the underlying themes of bravery, integrity, and love for family resonate strongly. 'Mulan' successfully portrays an empowering message about cultural identity, gender roles, and personal freedom. The film explores daring topics for a family-oriented film backed by a well-paced story, a unique blend of humor and emotion, remarkable animation, and unforgettable musical scores.

Mulan is a heartwarming tale of courage, honor and love, and a vivid exploration of a young woman defying norms, to save her father and serve her country. It's a family-friendly feature that ensures a delightful viewing experience, enthralling both children and adults while bringing to the fore some serious themes and issues. It is more than an animated movie; it is a tale of self-discovery, bravery, and defiance that remains one of Disney's most celebrated classics.