Review of the DVD, “Mulan”:

Stocking stuffers were on my mind a few days before Christmas. Having fifteen and eleven-year-old daughters, the standards are a given. A set of those squishy things that hold back their hair in a ponytail. They are forever losing them. Mentos gum is always appreciated. Ferrero Rocher is a favorite. But there needed to be something that was a bit of a surprise. Fortunately, Disney had come out with another of its remakes of an animated film using real life characters. They have done it with “Lion King” and “Jungle Book.” This past summer it was “Mulan” which was out just in time for Christmas in DVD. Perfect. I like getting my daughters DVDs that have a strong female character. Stocking stuffers complete. You may know the story if you saw the animated version. The kingdom is threatened by the evil Bori Khan and his minions who are supported by the witch, Xianniang. A decree goes out that all families of the empire must contribute one male to the emperor’s army to confront the forces of Bori Khan. Mulan’s father, Zhou, has been blessed with just two daughters. Though a veteran of previous wars, Zhou has grown old and feeble. Nevertheless, he knows his duty and when called upon volunteers as the male representative from his family. To save her father, Mulan steals his sword and armor and assumes his place in the army in the guise of a young male, risking her life and the potential disgrace of her whole family if she is found out. The code by which the emperor’s warriors train and live is “loyal, brave, and true.” There is no question of the loyalty and bravery of Mulan. But in her deception as a male is she being true? That is her struggle throughout her training and as they go to war against Bori Khan. Will she finally be true to who she really is? Of course, there are plenty of action scenes. What movie that involves war does not? But there is also humor, a surprise twist, and an end that is heartening. If you have young daughters “Mulan” is a good movie to see. And if you have not been blessed with daughters, as Zhou and I have, it is still a worthy view. Reviewed by Richard Dick, Library Assistant, O’Kelly Memorial Library

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