China's legendary 'Mulan' hits the big screen

MOVIE REVIEW

By Pratsara Kantathavorn, On-line Forty-Niner

June 25,1998

"Mulan," the newest addition to the Disney film collection is wonderful entertainment for the whole family.

The film embraces courage, loyalty and determination, presenting a comedy, action-thriller and drama, all rolled into one.

"Mulan" is based on a popular Chinese legend which chronicles a beautiful young woman's journey toward self-discovery.

The story's protagonist is a rebel with a cause who learns that the "girl inside her" is so much more than she or those who love her ever imagined.

The story starts with a young woman mortifying her town's matchmaker and dishonoring her father.

The story ends with this same young woman emerging a heroine after replacing her father in battle, rescuing her romantic hopeful, protecting her emperor and proving to herself that she is an honorable person.

All the seriousness of the story is continually spiced with the comedic relief of Mulan's little red pal, Mushu, a fire-whispering dragon, who struggles to prove his own heroism alongside Mulan throughout their ordeals.

The voice of Mulan is narrated beautifully by Ming-Na Wen, of "The Joy Luck Club." Scene stealer and comedic reliever, Mushu, is played by the one and only Eddie Murphy.

Mulan is a film with a theme to beat all Disney predecessors. This time, beauty not only lands the guy, she discovers her own strength of character and saves her country, in the process.