Review of Mulan (1998) by Adam R — 02 Aug 2016

A film that, even with the nostalgia goggles off, still holds up very well today. As always, Disney never fails to produce spectacular animation. The fluid motions of the characters and the sharp, crisp colors of the backgrounds alone make it worth a watch.

The performances, which Disney has admittedly been hit and miss with in other features, also work very well. Ming-Na Wen should especially be commended for her voice work, capturing all the right emotions of the titular hero.

Some detractors may take issue with Eddie Murphy's presence in the film. Now while it's true that he is sorely out of place here, the filmmakers were clearly trying to repeat the magic that Robin Williams gave them in Aladdin, his dragon sidekick is still inherently likable and funny.

All of the characters here, main and supporting, have a chance to shine. Well, all except for the villain Shan Yu (voiced by Miguel Ferrer). This character may go down in the Disney Renaissance as the least interesting.

Aside from a unique look and appropriately creepy voice, there's not a whole lot for him to do, which is unfortunate considering the high caliber of villains in the Disney cannon. Are there other complaints to be made? Sure.

Some of the jokes fall flat in and those familiar with Disney will likely pick up on the clichéd story beats, but that typically comes with the territory. That's not so much meant to be an excuse as it is just a warning to those expecting something radically different.

But in the end, Mulan succeeds for its animation, performances, and heart.