The much anticipated live action Disney film Mulan released in Disney+ on September 4th. I have a brief recap of the movie and Mulan activity sheets for you and your family to enjoy. I have been waiting to see this movie since we heard it was coming to theaters last March. We had a family movie night to end our family fun day together before the kids head back to school.
The Story of Mulan
Acclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro brings the epic tale of China’s legendary warrior to life in Disney’s “Mulan,” in which a fearless young woman risks everything out of love for her family and her country to become one of the greatest warriors China has ever known.
Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father, masquerading as a man. She is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honored warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation…and a proud father.
“The original ‘Ballad of Mulan’ was written centuries ago and has been popular ever since,” says producer Jason Reed.
“The animated movie brought it to Western audiences. Now we’re hoping to take elements from the original ballad and the beloved Disney animation and create something that is new and exciting, while honoring the essential elements of this inspiring story. We focused on how someone can embrace bravery, loyalty and duty while still being true to oneself.”
Behind The Scenes
“What stands out about Mulan is her spirit,” adds Reed. “Mulan herself is what draws me to the story. When I watched the original animated film, I loved the locations, I loved the music, I loved the comedy, but what really stuck with me was her character. Even though she’s a woman and Chinese, her struggle spoke to me growing up. How do you fulfill your duty? How do you do what’s right? How do you fit in and how do you find your place? I think those are really important questions, and it’s the foundation on which we built the live-action adaptation.”
The Cast
“Mulan” features a celebrated international cast that includes:
- Yifei Liu as Mulan
- Donnie Yen as Commander Tung
- Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan
- Yoson An as Cheng Honghui
- Gong Li as Xianniang
- Jet Li as the Emperor
I love how these new Disney films showcase different cultures, traditions, and beliefs. The costumes and the music were beautiful, and the scenery was breathtaking! Especially the scene when they were attacking during battle.
Once again, Disney has released a movie with a strong female lead ad the heroine who brings honor to her family. Mulan is an empowering character, and Yifei Liu hopes the film will help girls and women trust in themselves.
“I hope they will not focus on just what they get in life, but will trust their instincts. Be true to themselves for sure, because they are the only ones who can surprise themselves in their lives.”
Mulan Activity Sheets
Disney Movies provided a beautiful educational packet for you to download and share with your family. It helps understand the story and culture behind the movie.
Download the Mulan Activity Sheets. It’s a great little workbook to encourage you to look inside yourself to find your strengths, seek out what feeds your spirit through nature, and also helps you learn more about your family history.
How to Watch Mulan
If you wish to watch Mulan now you can stream it on Disney+ with Premier Access (Disney+ subscription and additional fee required).
Follow Mulan
Like MULAN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WaltDisneyMulan
Follow MULAN on Twitter:https://twitter.com/DisneysMulan
Follow MULAN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mulan/
View the MULAN playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist
What Did You Think?
Did you watch the movie on the premier night with your family? What do you think of it? We loved it. I especially loved the ending. I loved the ceremony and Mulan’s expression as she opened her gift. It was beautiful.