Forget about the sugar-coated Disney versions and forget about talking animals. This 2009 movie is based on the legend of Mulan, the woman taking the place of her father in order to go to war, and whose accomplishments led her to rise as a general in the Wei army.
While this movie is entertaining in terms of action, drama and warfare, then if you are already familiar with the story of Hua Mulan, then there is very little surprises throughout the course of the movie. Well, aside from the devious Mushu dragon is not here.
"Hua Mulan" does differ from many other movies in the genre, that being big, epic war movies. Sure, there are battlescenes throughout the movie, and they are impressive, but if you are expecting the same grand level of epic warfare as in many other movies of the Chinese warfare genre, then you might find yourself somewhat disappointed. "Hua Mulan" focuses more on drama and character Development, as such it is story- and character-driven, putting the war and action sequences in second line.
I was especially impressed with the costumes and props in "Hua Mulan". There were some many great details to be seen here. The armors, shields and weaponry was really impressive. And for a movie set in this age, then having a believable and realistic presentation is a must. So thumbs up on their achievement here.
The acting in the movie was good, although I think they could have had some more talented people in the roles of Hua Mulan (played by Wei Zhao) and Fei Xiaohu (played by Jaycee Chan). Don't get me wrong, they didn't do poor jobs, I just think that someone more talented could have added more to the movie. Kun Chen (playing Wentai) was really doing a phenomenal job though, and he alone lifted the movie a great deal.
"Hua Mulan" is a good and entertaining movie. But there are far better choices in the Chinese warfare genre, should you be looking for such entertainment. I am rating "Hua Mulan" six out of ten stars.
While this movie is entertaining in terms of action, drama and warfare, then if you are already familiar with the story of Hua Mulan, then there is very little surprises throughout the course of the movie. Well, aside from the devious Mushu dragon is not here.
"Hua Mulan" does differ from many other movies in the genre, that being big, epic war movies. Sure, there are battlescenes throughout the movie, and they are impressive, but if you are expecting the same grand level of epic warfare as in many other movies of the Chinese warfare genre, then you might find yourself somewhat disappointed. "Hua Mulan" focuses more on drama and character Development, as such it is story- and character-driven, putting the war and action sequences in second line.
I was especially impressed with the costumes and props in "Hua Mulan". There were some many great details to be seen here. The armors, shields and weaponry was really impressive. And for a movie set in this age, then having a believable and realistic presentation is a must. So thumbs up on their achievement here.
The acting in the movie was good, although I think they could have had some more talented people in the roles of Hua Mulan (played by Wei Zhao) and Fei Xiaohu (played by Jaycee Chan). Don't get me wrong, they didn't do poor jobs, I just think that someone more talented could have added more to the movie. Kun Chen (playing Wentai) was really doing a phenomenal job though, and he alone lifted the movie a great deal.
"Hua Mulan" is a good and entertaining movie. But there are far better choices in the Chinese warfare genre, should you be looking for such entertainment. I am rating "Hua Mulan" six out of ten stars.