Based on a Chinese legend that has inspired millions, Disney's Mulan tells the story of a courageous young woman who poses as a man so she can join the army in place of her father and help defend her people against ruthless invaders. The live-action version of the classic tale is now heading to theaters, teasing a fresh perspective and truly spectacular action sequences. Here's what you need to know before you go see the all-new Mulan.
What's the big deal about a young woman serving in the military?
Legions of brave women have proven their fitness to serve in the armed forces over the years, but it wasn't always that way. Centuries ago, the "Ballad of Mulan" told of a courageous woman who served as a soldier for years in place of her father after invaders threatened the security of the nation. At the time, women were not permitted to serve in the military, upon penalty of execution, prompting Mulan to hide her sexual identity.
What made the original film so special?
Disney's popular animated adaptation, released in 1998, portrayed a female lead who took the initiative to get things done, making up her own mind to serve in place of her father and later taking decisive action on her own to defeat the enemy invaders. The film was the first Disney animated film based on a Chinese legend. It also looked distinctly different from previous Disney films, drawing extensively from traditional Chinese art, architecture and culture.
Was there ever a sequel?
Yes. Released directly to home video, the fun and spirited Mulan II picks up the story one month after the conclusion of events in the first film. Mulan gets engaged to Li Shang and then accompanies him as he escorts the emperor's daughters on a journey to meet their future husbands. The trip is fraught with perils, as Mulan also questions why the young women have been forced into arranged marriages for political purposes. The lively film is filled with action and comedy.
What's different about the new story?
To be clear, this is not a sequel, but an all-new version of the original story. The international cast includes Yifei Liu as Mulan, Donnie Yen as Commander Tung, Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan, Yoson An as Cheng Honghui; with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor. To learn more, check out the biggest differences between the animated and live-action movies.
Watch the trailers below.
When can we see it?
Mulan will open in theaters everywhere on March 27. Get tickets now!
