Parents' Guide to Mulan

Movie 1998 G 90 minutes
Mulan Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Betsy Wallace , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Disneyfied but dignified tale of Chinese warrior.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 5+?

Any Positive Content?

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  • Mulan Movie: Mulan on a rooftop in a fighting position
  • Mulan Movie: Mushu holds cricket in palm
  • Mulan Movie: Three soldiers put their heads together mid-song
  • Mulan Movie: Shang and Mulan train together

Parent and Kid Reviews

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age 6+

Based on 46 parent reviews

Parents say the movie offers a blend of entertainment and moral lessons, showcasing themes of bravery, resilience, and breaking gender stereotypes, which many find empowering for young viewers. However, it has drawn criticism for its violent scenes and the presence of outdated racial and gender stereotypes, making it a controversial choice for younger children while appealing to families with older kids who can engage with its deeper messages.empowerment themesmixed reviewsexcessive violencefamily-friendlystereotypes present
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age 6+

Based on 105 kid reviews

Kids say this movie is a fun and empowering tale featuring a strong female lead who defies gender roles while facing the challenges of war; however, there are criticisms regarding cultural representation, outdated stereotypes, and some violent scenes. Many viewers appreciate the humor, music, and animation, alongside a few offensive elements and the need for more character depth.strong female leadhumor and adventureaddresses stereotypescultural representationempowers children
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What's the Story?

Based on the story of China's legendary girl warrior, MULAN, this animated Disney film begins as the Huns invade China and the army calls up its best soldiers. Mulan's father is on the list, but she can see that he's too weak from an old injury to fight. So instead of staying home to find a husband, Mulan (voiced by Ming-Na Wen) dresses like a man and heads off to war, taking her father's place. Her ancestors try to send a powerful dragon to help her, but a scrawny dragon named Mushu (Eddie Murphy) sneaks off with her instead. Mulan struggles at first but becomes a brave and skilled fighter against the Huns -- and finds new friends in unexpected places.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 46 ):
Kids say ( 105 ):

Disney took a gamble on Mulan -- she doesn't fit the princess mold, and most moviegoers had never heard of her -- and the end results are a bit mixed. The songs and supporting characters aren't particularly memorable, but the settings are gorgeous, and Mulan herself is one of a kind in the Disney canon (it's too bad that in the end she still needs to be married off to a "Prince Charming" who saves the day).

Still, many aspects of Chinese culture are incorporated into Mulan -- such as reverence to one's ancestors, the significance of dragons, and the importance of honor. The DVD includes a feature that shows how the filmmakers researched not only the Mulan legend but also Chinese art, architecture, history, and culture. There's also a feature for kids that explains the film's many cultural references, as well as deleted scenes and songs.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Mulan reconciles defying her parents' wishes and the law versus doing what she thinks she must. When should people follow their inner beliefs first and foremost?

  • Do you consider Mulan a role model? How does she compare to Disney's other heroes?

  • How does Mulan demonstrate perseverance, integrity, and courage? Why are these important character strengths?

  • How do Shang and the other soldiers learn humility and teamwork in Mulan?

Movie Details

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