Disney Is Making A Live-Action 'Mulan'
Beau Salant ‘18 / Emertainment Monthly Staff Writer
One of the great underrated Disney musicals, Mulan tells the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the army. Featuring classic songs such as “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” and “A Girl Worth Fighting For,” Mulan has ingrained itself into the pantheon of great Disney films and has achieved classic status.
With a script by Elizabeth Martin and Lauren Hynek and producers Chris Bender and J.C. Spink attached, a director and star are sure to be announced soon.
Who should direct? If Disney wants to keep the crew predominantly Asian, director Wong Kar Wai would be a strong choice, as he has a long history of directing warrior films. However, he’s never made a family friendly film before, so Taiwanese director Ang Lee (who recently directed Life of Pi) might be a better choice. If Disney wants to go with a director they’ve previously collaborated with, Bill Condon (who is currently making their live-action Beauty and the Beast) or Rob Marshall (who helmed last year’s Into the Woods) could be tapped.
As for the title role, the original voice actress behind Mulan, Lea Salonga, may be slightly too old to reprise the role. Perhaps the best choice would be Eva Noblezada, who is currently starring in the West End revival of Miss Saigon (the original production of which made Salonga a star). Another Broadway star who could be in the running is Ruthie Ann Miles, currently playing Lady Thiang in The King and I.
Who do you think should take on Mulan? Will you see the movie when it comes out?