MULAN First Reactions Call It a Live-Action Victory

The the first trailer for the upcoming live-action Mulan was released last July, and the initial reaction was overwhelming. Unlike some other Disney remakes, including 2019’s The Lion King, this version was making major changes to the original animated film. It was no longer a musical for one, and fan-favorite Mushu didn’t make the cut. Disney’s newest take on the Chinese legend was clearly going to be more mature and action-packed.

Now, the first reactions are coming in after Mulan‘s world premiere, and some critics say it exceeds the hype instilled by that beautiful first trailer.

Some folks who were lucky enough to be in attendance at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood for the film’s premiere were unequivocal in their praise for the movie. They raved about its action sequences and cinematography, in what sounds like a moving and exciting story that has real heart behind it.

It also sounds like we might want to have a hanky with us when we see it. Mulan definitely made some viewers cry with its exploration of theme and female empowerment.

Those who absolutely love the 1998 animated film (raises hand) might be skeptical about the film’s changes and whether this more serious tone will work. However, some said the movie has enough nods to the original for fans to look for and celebrate.

Speaking of “steamy,” others also said the new Mulan might be a little bit (a lot?) sexier than anyone would ever expect from a Disney film.

Between this and “ hot Jafar” we might have to start resetting our expectations for how thirsty Disney live-action remakes can be. And yes, that sentence was as weird to write as it probably was to read.

Unfortunately, praise for the film wasn’t universal. Some thought the movie had issues that prevented it from truly being great. They said that even though some elements worked, there were too many other problems that led to a disjointed story that never found true victory on the cinematic battlefield.

Even with some people not being fans, that’s still a pretty terrific batch of first reactions. And it seems to justify the excitement we felt when we saw the first trailer last July, and the final trailer last month.

Even if we are going to miss Mushu.

“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. When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man named Hua Jun, 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.”

Mulan comes to U.S. theaters later this month, on March 27, 2020.

Featured Image: Disney

Top Stories
Trending Topics

It looks like you have an ad blocker enabled.

Hey reader! We’re delighted you're perusing our site for all your nerdy news. We'd wholeheartedly appreciate you enabling ads to keep this content free. Thank you!