Disney's Mulan
© Disney
In the time of the Tsin Dynasty in China there was a young girl named Mulan. Though Mulan is independent, she deeply respects her parents, and she is saddened that she is not a perfect daughter. She’s inept around the house and prefers riding horses to learning feminine pastimes. The local matchmaker tells her she will never bring honor to her family. But when the dreaded Huns and their ruthless leader Shan-Yu invade China, the Emperor decrees that one male in every family must go into military service. Mulan’s aged father, though he has physical disabilities, wants to fight for the honor of his country and family. Mulan knows that her father cannot survive the war, and she takes his place, disguising herself as a man. She cuts her long hair, dresses as a soldier, and calls herself Ping. Mulan prays to her ancestors for protection. But they disapprove of her venture and send a disgraced little dragon named Mushu to discourage her from her plan. Mushu, however, supports Mulan, and during her military training under the handsome Li Shang, Mushu helps her gain the respect of her fellow warriors, while keeping her true identity secret. Mulan faces execution if it becomes known that she is a female in disguise. When the enemy attacks, Mulan demonstrates her determination and courage in battle. Amid charging armies and village ruins in flames, she fights bravely and resourcefully, impressing her captain Li Shang. In the end, the fearsome Shan-Yu is defeated, China is saved, Mulan finds her match in Li Shang, and she returns home to her honored father.
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