Let’s get down to business.
A few days ago, director Niki Caro revealed that the live action adaptation of Mulan will not feature any of the songs in the Disney adaptation, “much to the horror of my children.” She added that the film will be “a big, girly martial arts epic.
It will be extremely muscular and thrilling and entertaining and moving.”
Lea Salonga, who provided the singing voice of Mulan in the Disney movie, shared her thoughts through a series of tweets:
So what do I think about the live-action Mulan not having the songs? I think it’s pretty cool! Let the film be a different thing altogether!
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) March 20, 2017
Hang on. This may just be a great decision. If the live action Cinderella is any indication, we’re in for a really cool ride. https://t.co/UQRal5dIEp
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) March 20, 2017
I ask for two things from the live-action Mulan: one, an Asian actress that’d be believable as a boy or a man, and a hunky Shang.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) March 20, 2017
The original legend of Mulan existed for over 1,000 years without the music. The new film will stand proud and tall without the songs.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) March 20, 2017
The story of Mulan is based on the legend of Hua Mulan, a Chinese warrior from the Southern and Northern Dynasties period (420–589), who took the place of her aging father in the army. She helps defend China from invaders, and instead of accepting an official post, she returns home to her family.
The story was adapted by Disney in 1998, which received critical and commercial success. Rotten Tomatoes described it as “Exploring themes of family duty and honor, Mulan breaks new ground as a Disney film, while still bringing vibrant animation and sprightly characters to the screen.”
Plans of a live-action adaptation have been swirling since the 2000’s, but it began development in 2015. Last October, it was announced that Disney was doing a global casting call for a Chinese actress who can speak both English and Mandarin to play the titular role.
The live action adaptation of Mulan is set to be released on November 2, 2018.
Are you excited for the movie? Share your thoughts below!
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