Timeless, Empowering and Touching. Proof that when animation is done right and with care it becomes a fan favorite and classic.

Rating: 9/10 (26 April 2020)

The 90s were known as "Disney's Renaissance" where many titles reached critically and commercial success, some of them even breaking records like Mulan(1998). It is not an exaggeration to say that Mulan(1998) is one of the most original, well-crafted and aesthetically innovative animated feature in Disney's repertoire.
From the mesmerizing chinese painting-style opening titles to the stunning animation and sharp character designs, the film holds an aesthetically pleasing style and feel very different to what Disney used to do back then and which stand the test of time. Contrary to computer animation, it's hard for traditional animation to become outdated and it will still resonate the same to newer generations as long as it's done right. That's why the moral and themes of the story must be significant in order for it to have a chance to still be relevant in the future.
The film succeeds in both aspects, it provides an endearing, touching and well-realised story loosely based in the famous Chinese legend of Mulan; and a riveting emotive and action-filled spectacle with an incredibly well-composed soundtrack and an empowering message for women. The movie has some elements that could have potentially ruined the tone and craftmanship of the tale being told like the character of Mushu. However, thanks to the well-written jokes, impeccable performance by Eddie Murphy and overall relevance to the plot it provides a funny support character meant to help the main lead to express her thoughts at certain crucial parts of the movie.
Disney has been known to add common elements to every Princess tale making it a bit formulaic, elements like animal side characters or mascots and a romantic interest. While these are merely irrelevant to the story and mostly add comical moments to it, in this film all the side characters have a reason to be there and have a role within the story. Except perhaps the dog, which only appears in one sequence at the beginning of the movie and it's never seen again.
Furthermore, the first 20 minutes are some of the most intense, well fleshed out and heartfelt moments of any animated feature. With little dialogue and the abundance of symbolisms, songs and wise metaphors, the first act of the movie is able to convey to the audience precisely how Mulan feels towards the situation she is living and the overall picture of women in this portrayal of feudal China.
While some views and commentaries found in songs may have aged poorly, the film contains uplifting and encouraging calls to action motivated by honor and identity. THere's a sense of comradery as the training the soldiers go through provide a needed bonding that would benefit them not only in defeating the enemy but also would help them open their eyes and heart.
Another very important aspect the movie stands out for is the uncensoring of the more tragic and darker moments involving the enemy and the consequences of war without ever taking it too far.
IN CONCLUSION, as a take of a very loosely based portrayal of the legend of Mulan the movie doesn't succeed as much, but as a story of a daughter that went to war instead of her wounded father to not only save his life but prove her worth and find her self and eventually suceeding in doing so bringing honor to her family it's a remarkable movie. Great animation, original setting, inspiring scenes and symbolism, soothing and energetic music and incredible themes. This film does everything an animated movie can do and it does it perfectly.