MEDIA ANALYSIS
LO2 2.1 - 2.2
For my research, I chose to examine Disney's animated film "Mulan" (1998). This is because I believe Mulan shares some similarities with my own concept, which is supported by some of my primary research survey responses.
CHARACTER STUDY
Fa Mulan is the main character of this film. She is a unique character that represents the beginning of a new era for Disney princesses, which have frequently embodied gender norms and values in the past. For example, many other classic Disney princesses are obedient and never break any boundaries or stereotypes. Whereas Mulan is in control of her own fate, isn't influenced by stereotypes, and has her own set of strengths, flaws, objectives, and beliefs.
Mulan singing “Reflection”
Creating characters that audience members can relate to and be inspired by is very important. Those who recognise themselves in their favourite characters experience a sense of belonging. Mulan's relatability is one of the reasons why so many people enjoy this film, as she is not only associated with a particular group of people; almost anyone can see themselves in her. Mulan’s Relatability
MULAN'S ORIGINS
Mulan's original story is very different from Disney's 1998 animated film. The story of Mulan was first published in a 12th-century anthology known as the Ballad of Mulan. Because of references to the Northern Wei dynasty, which lasted from the fourth to the early sixth centuries, it is thought to have originated as a folk tale in the fourth or fifth centuries.
In the original ballad, Mulan’s father is called to battle, and she volunteers to go in his place. After 12 years of war, Mulan returns to her hometown along with her comrades, who are shocked to learn that she is a woman. Mulan’s Origins
A painting of Mulan from the 18th century.
AUDIENCE RECEPTION
To find out what the critics and audience thought of this movie, I chose to visit the website Rotten Tomatoes.
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This film received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average rating of 7.60 out of 10 from audience members and 6.90 out of 10 from critics.
The critic's consensus reads, "Exploring themes of family duty and honor, Mulan breaks new ground as a Disney film, while still bringing vibrant animation and sprightly characters to the screen." Rotten Tomatoes
I was interested to see how this film performed in the Chinese box office, and was surprised to see that the film didn't do well there. Mulan received just $30,000 at the box office after 3 weeks, and in Shanghai, only 200,000 of the city's 14 million population went to see the film.
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Mulan was too "foreign-looking" in her Disney portrayal, according to China's official news agency, and "her complexion, disposition, and manner of behaviour were different from a [authentic] Chinese character," the BBC reported in 1999. Insider
MEDIA ANALYSIS CONCLUSIONS
From looking at my survey responses, I have decided to look into the existing media that people have told me are similar to my idea, this has led me to research into the characters involved in these stories, one of the most prevalent being the character Mulan from Disney's Mulan (1998) She is a very compelling and strong character, and this is something that I will take into my own animation for my own main character.