Mulan (2020) Movie Script
ZHOU: There have been
many tales
of the great warrior, Mulan.
But, ancestors,
this one is mine.
Here she is.
A young shoot, all green...
unaware of the blade.
If you had such a daughter...
her chi, the boundless energy
of life itself...
speaking through
her every motion...
could you tell her that
only a son could wield chi?
That a daughter would risk
shame, dishonor, exile?
Ancestors, I could not.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(CHICKEN CLUCKING)
ZHOU: This way.
That's the last one.
Gently.
(CHICKEN SQUAWKING)
Mulan! Forget the chicken!
It will come back!
(CHICKEN SQUAWKING)
(GASPS)
No!
- (WOMAN SCREAMING)
- (CHICKEN CLUCKING)
Tell me your sister
is not the cause of this.
- (GASPS)
- (BABY CRIES)
Mulan!
- Take control of yourself!
- (GIGGLING)
(CLUCKING AND SQUAWKING)
(ALL EXCLAIMING)
- (GRUNTS)
- (CHICKEN CLUCKING)
ZHOU: Mulan!
Listen very carefully.
No!
(VILLAGERS GRUMBLING)
Mulan, what happened
when you fell off the roof?
It was like you were a bird.
Don't panic.
There's a spider
crawling in your hair.
You know I'm afraid of spiders.
This is not one of
your tricks, is it, Mulan?
Don't worry,
if you hold very still...
I will squash it.
LI: It is because I'm trying
to protect Mulan
that I say this.
Mulan is young.
She is still learning
how to control herself.
You make excuses for her.
You forget, Mulan is
a daughter, not a son.
A daughter brings honor
through marriage.
Any man would be fortunate to
marry either of our daughters.
Including Mulan.
I ask you, what man will want
to marry a girl
who flits around rooftops,
chasing chickens?
Xiu gives me no trouble.
The matchmaker will find
a good husband for her.
It is Mulan I worry about.
They'll call her a witch.
It's time you talked to her.
(ZHOU GRUNTS)
Do you know why the phoenix
sits at the entrance
of our shrine?
She is the emissary
for our ancestors.
But I broke her.
(CHUCKLES)
Some say the phoenix
is consumed by flame...
and emerges again.
I think she can survive
a broken wing.
Your chi is strong, Mulan.
But chi is for warriors...
not daughters.
Soon, you'll be a young woman...
and it is time for you...
to hide your gift away.
To...
To silence its voice.
I say this to protect you.
That is my job.
Your job is to bring honor
to the family.
(SNIFFLES)
Do you think you can do that?
(MEN SHOUTING INDISTINCTLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
Rourans? It can't be.
- Close the gates!
- (GUARDS SHOUT IN PANIC)
Take out the leader!
(PEOPLE EXCLAIM IN FEAR)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(YELLING)
(GRUNTING)
(SCREAMING)
GUARD: He's way too strong!
(PEOPLE SCREAMING)
XIANNIANG: You. You'll do.
CHANCELLOR: Your Majesty...
six of our northern garrisons
along the Silk Road...
have fallen
in a coordinated attack.
All trade has been disrupted.
If we allow this to continue,
it could be
the end of the kingdom.
And my citizens?
Slaughtered.
This soldier
is the only survivor.
I fear more attacks will follow.
Who is responsible?
Rourans, Your Majesty.
Their leader calls himself
Bri Khan.
I killed Bri Khan.
It is his son.
He has united the tribes
and resurrected the Rouran army.
If I may, Your Imperial Majesty.
EMPEROR: You may speak.
Bri Khan
fights alongside a woman.
Her chi is beyond imagining.
There is no place
for witches in this kingdom.
It is forbidden
to use the power of chi
in destructive ways.
And yet, it is her skill
that leads the Rouran army
to victory.
She has trained an elite force
of shadow warriors
to assist Bri Khan.
EMPEROR: We're not afraid
of dark magic.
We'll destroy this Rouran army
and their witch.
Here's my decree.
We'll build a mighty army.
Every family
will supply one man.
We'll protect
our beloved people...
and crush these murderers.
Deploy the Imperial Army.
The dynasty
will not be threatened.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(HAWK SCREAMS)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
BRI KHAN: So, you have news.
XIANNIANG:
The emperor sends his army
to defend the Silk Road.
BRI KHAN: Good.
We will crush every garrison
until the Imperial Army
is on its knees.
And then...
the Imperial City
will be laid bare.
The emperor
will be mine to kill.
You have proved useful, witch.
XIANNIANG: Not witch.
Warrior.
(EXHALES SHAKILY)
I could tear you to pieces
before you blink.
BRI KHAN: But you won't.
Remember what you want...
a place where your powers
will not be vilified.
A place where you are accepted
for who you are.
You won't get what you want
without me.
When I found you
on a desert steppe
wandering alone...
you were exiled.
A scorned dog.
When I sit on the throne,
that dog will have a home.
(CHUCKLES)
We will finish what we started.
And you will see to it
that nothing and no one
stands in my way.
(URGES HORSE)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
Black Wind and I rode alongside
two rabbits
running side by side.
I think one was a male,
one was a female.
But you know,
you can't really tell
when they're running that fast.
When I go riding tomorrow,
I will try to find them again.
Maybe they'll still be there.
We have excellent news.
The matchmaker has found you
an auspicious match.
Yes, Mulan, it is decided.
Come and sit down.
(XIU SIGHS)
It is what is best
for our family.
Yes.
It is best.
I will bring honor to us all.
(SNEEZES)
I'm truly blessed
to be in the presence
of such enchanting women.
I have no doubt today will be
a momentous day for the Hua...
Never mind that.
We must be on time.
MULAN: I'm starving.
I already told you,
you cannot eat.
It will ruin your makeup.
The fiercest winter storm
could not destroy this makeup.
Xiu, look at my face.
What am I feeling?
XIU: I have no idea.
(WHISPERS) Exactly.
This is my sad face.
This is my curious face.
And now I'm confused.
(BOTH LAUGHING)
Quiet.
Composed.
Graceful.
Elegant.
Poised.
Polite.
These are the qualities...
we see in a good wife.
These are the qualities...
we see in Mulan.
When a wife
serves her husband...
(GULPS)
she must be silent.
(EXHALES DEEPLY)
She must be...
invisible.
She must be...
Is something wrong?
No, Madam Matchmaker.
Thank you.
It's ideal for the teapot...
to remain
in the center of the table.
MULAN: Yes, I understand.
But I think the teapot
should remain where it is.
Move the teapot.
Girl!
(SCREAMING)
(ALL SCREAM)
(ALL WHIMPERING)
Dishonor to the Hua family.
They have failed
to raise a good daughter.
(VILLAGERS MURMURING)
(DRUMS BEATING)
VILLAGE MAGISTRATE: Citizens!
Citizens, we are under attack
from Northern Invaders.
Our land is at war.
By edict
of His Imperial Majesty,
the Son of Heaven...
every family must contribute
one man to fight.
One man from every house.
Wng family.
Chin family.
D family.
Hua family.
I am Hua Zhou.
I served the Imperial Army
in the last battle
against the Northern Invaders.
Have you no son
old enough to fight?
I am blessed with two daughters.
I will fight.
- (VILLAGERS GASP)
- No.
You will
only humiliate him further.
Are you all right?
Can I help you?
ZHOU: No. (GRUNTS)
VILLAGE MAGISTRATE:
Liu family.
Wei family.
LI: You're a war hero.
You've already made
many great sacrifices.
Are you suggesting...
our family not comply
with the Imperial edict?
But how can you fight...
I am the father.
It is my place to bring honor
to our family
on the battlefield.
You are the daughter!
Learn your place.
(DOOR SLAMS)
LI: We must be strong.
This time, he will not return.
(SWORD UNSHEATHES)
(GRUNTS SOFTLY)
MULAN: It's beautiful.
ZHOU: Beautiful tool...
for terrible work.
The phoenix.
You remember?
(CHUCKLES)
She has followed me
into battle before,
and she will follow me now.
And she will tell our
ancestors I've been loyal...
brave, and true.
I wish I was as brave as you.
There is no courage
without fear.
But, Father...
You must be courageous, Mulan.
For your mother
and your sister.
For me.
It is my duty to fight.
My honor to sacrifice
for the emperor.
If I were your son,
you wouldn't have to.
I would change nothing
about my life.
We should all get some rest.
I'm leaving in the morning.
(FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)
"Loyal, brave, and true."
ZHOU: My sword.
My armor! It's gone!
Who would do such a thing?
The conscription scroll.
It was Mulan.
LI: You must stop her.
The Northern Invaders
will kill her!
If I expose her lie,
our own people will kill her.
(THUNDER RUMBLING)
ZHOU: Ancestors,
honored phoenix...
ancestral guardian,
I beseech you...
watch over my daughter, Mulan.
She has made a terrible mistake.
I taught her too late
to know her place.
I indulged her.
She is innocent of the world.
Of men.
And the evils of war.
And now she's in great danger.
Please, honored phoenix...
protect her.
MULAN: Our last apple.
You need it more than I do.
We should be there by now.
Do you think we are lost?
(WINGS FLUTTERING)
The phoenix.
ZHOU: There were men gathering
from all over the kingdom.
An alien
and savage tribe to her.
To hide amongst them, she knew
she must become one of them.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
I'm Cricket.
My mother says I was born
under an auspicious moon.
That is why my mother says
I'm a good luck charm.
(LAUGHING)
Ow.
- (GRUNTS)
- (MULAN GROANS)
MAN: (CHUCKLES)
Need a hand, little man?
(IN DEEP VOICE)
Insult me again,
and you'll taste
the tip of my blade.
- Lower your sword.
- Or what?
(ALL GRUNTING)
I'm your commanding officer.
Fighting will not be
tolerated. Am I clear?
Yes, Commander.
With your voice, soldier.
(CONTINUING IN DEEP VOICE)
Yes, Commander.
What is your name?
Hua Jun, Commander.
Is this your family sword?
It belongs to my father,
Hua Zhou.
COMMANDER TUNG: Fall in line.
(MEN LAUGHING)
Sorry, Ling! (LAUGHING)
LING: Yao, give it back!
It's not funny!
YAO: Po, catch!
(MEN CONTINUE LAUGHING)
I told you to line up
for showers.
- Showers?
- Showers.
You lot stink.
And I need a volunteer
- for night guard duty.
- Me!
I mean, I volunteer, sir.
(MEN SNORING)
(SNORING CONTINUES)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
(GASPS)
(SNORING)
SERGEANT QIANG: Stealing.
Penalty, death.
Desertion. Penalty, death.
Bring women into camp
or consorting with women
in any way.
- Penalty, death.
- (SIGHS)
Dishonesty.
Penalty...
expulsion, disgrace.
Disgrace for you,
disgrace for your family...
disgrace for your village,
disgrace for your country.
We're going to make men
out of every single one of you.
(MEN GROANING)
Ow.
Fire!
(MAN GRUNTS)
Only the strongest
will reach the summit.
It will take
everything you have.
(MEN GRUNTING)
Straighten out those arms.
Keep them up. Shoulder level.
(GROANS)
Keep your mind strong.
- Don't stop.
- (SNIFFLES)
Is he crying?
(CRYING)
(CRICKET MOANS)
Fire!
Fire!
- Give that back!
- (GOBBLES)
(LAUGHTER)
(ALL GRUNTING IN UNISON)
(PANTING)
(MEN GRUNTING)
Longwei!
Report to the barracks
immediately.
Immediately.
Dishonesty.
Penalty, expulsion.
Disgrace.
LING: We were matched
28 days ago.
Her name is Li Li.
Her skin is white as milk.
Her fingers like the tender
white roots of a green onion.
Ling is a romantic!
Her eyes
are like morning dewdrops...
I like my women buxom.
(LAUGHS)
With strong, wide hips.
I like kissing women
with cherry red lips.
I don't care
what she looks like.
- I agree.
- I care what she cooks like.
(LAUGHING)
Tell us, Hua Jun.
What's your ideal woman?
My ideal woman is courageous.
- A courageous woman?
- MULAN: Yes.
(SCOFFS)
(MEN LAUGHING)
And she has a sense of humor.
- She's also smart.
- Smart?
Well, what does she look like?
That's not the point.
Courageous, funny, smart.
Hua Jun's not describing
a woman...
(GRUNTS)
he's describing me.
(LAUGHS)
That's not you, Yao.
That's definitely not you.
(LAUGHS)
Not you.
(ALL LAUGHING)
PO: Not you.
(MEN CONTINUE LAUGHING)
HONGHUI: Hua Jun.
Don't let them bother you.
Especially that donkey Yao.
(HONGHUI GRUNTS)
(HONGHUI SIGHS)
Are you matched? Can I ask?
No.
I mean, yes. I was.
(CLEARS THROAT) Almost.
Didn't work out.
Lucky you.
I mean, how do you
even begin to know
how to talk to a woman...
let alone be married to one?
Just talk to her like
you are talking to me now.
HONGHUI: (CHUCKLES)
Yeah, I wish it was that easy.
What if she doesn't like me?
She will.
I mean,
I think she will, you know?
You never know with women.
(HONGHUI SNIFFING)
You should really consider
skipping guard duty
and taking a shower.
You stink, my friend.
(SNIFFING)
(ALL GRUNTING IN UNISON)
(CHUCKLES)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(MEN EXCLAIMING)
(PO CHUCKLES)
(HONGHUI GASPS)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(CHUCKLES)
- (MEN EXCLAIMING)
- (CHUCKLES)
You idiot.
Now everyone sees it.
You must hide your chi!
YAO: Hua Jun! (LAUGHS)
Who knew?
PO: What a killer!
(CHUCKLES)
(SNIFFS) You reek, soldier.
Have you even showered once yet?
You smell bad.
YAO: Mm-hmm.
(PO LAUGHS)
(RUSTLING)
- HONGHUI: Hua Jun.
- (GASPS)
I'm glad I found you.
I see you're finally
getting clean.
The Fifth Battalion thanks you.
I came here to be alone.
HONGHUI: What was that today?
It was incredible.
- I don't wanna talk about it.
- HONGHUI: Why not?
(BREATHES SHARPLY)
I can't believe all this time
you've been keeping
your skill a secret.
What else have you been hiding?
Nothing.
Leave me alone.
Hua Jun, we started off
on the wrong foot.
Can we be friends?
I'm not your friend.
Very well.
But you are my equal.
We fight together
against the same enemy.
I will do all I can
to protect the others.
You can turn your back on me...
but when the time comes,
do not turn your back on them.
(EXHALES DEEPLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
BRI KHAN:
I welcome the leaders
of the 12 Rouran tribes...
as we approach
the final victory.
Soon the Imperial City
will be ours.
But we're relying on a witch.
- (MEN GRUMBLING)
- MAN 1: Yes, a witch.
MAN 2: A witch
cannot be trusted!
- BRI KHAN: She is no threat.
- (MEN CONTINUE GRUMBLING)
- (HAWK SHRIEKS)
- Hush! Enough!
Make no mistake...
the witch serves me
and therefore, all of us.
She knows who her master is.
Consider our future.
This, my friends...
is just a small taste
of what is to come.
From the Imperial City ahead,
riches will flow
like a mighty river.
I don't care about riches.
How much gold can a nomad carry?
(CLATTERS)
Then, I will give you revenge...
for the land we lost
to the empire.
For the shame of the last war.
For my father,
who the emperor killed.
If gold is not enough...
I will give you blood.
Sharpen your swords.
Our time has come.
XIANNIANG: Now I know.
I serve you.
I am the slave.
BRI KHAN: And you would
do well to remember it.
Over there, witch.
The next garrison.
Destroy it.
SERGEANT QIANG: Hua Jun.
Report to Commander Tung.
(SIGHS)
GUARD: Hua Jun, Commander.
Enter.
Hua Jun.
It seems you have been
hiding something.
- Commander...
- I sensed it
the moment I met you.
But now I'm sure.
You see,
I have a secret as well.
I know your father.
He was a great soldier.
In you, Hua Jun...
I see the shadow of his sword.
Perhaps this shadow
falls heavy on your shoulders.
You can't allow your father's
legacy to hold you back.
You need to cultivate your gift.
Sir.
Your chi is powerful, Hua Jun.
Why do you hide it?
I... I don't know.
COMMANDER TUNG:
The chi pervades the universe
and all living things.
We are all born with it.
But only the most true will
connect deeply to his chi...
and become a great warrior.
Tranquil as a forest...
but on fire within.
The Rouran enemy is vast.
They are ruthless
and unpredictable.
Yet physical force
need not be met
with equal force.
The warrior yields to force
and redirects it.
Disadvantage can be turned
into an advantage.
Four ounces
can move 1,000 pounds.
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(PANTING)
(EXHALES SHARPLY)
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
(PEOPLE SCREAMING)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(GUARD SCREAMING)
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
The garrisons continue to fall
to the Northern Invaders.
We have been called to war,
even though our training
is not finished.
SERGEANT QIANG:
We leave to defend
the Mountain-Steppe Garrison
against the Rouran invader.
Up until now, you've been
boys playing soldiers.
Today, you become men.
You will now take the oath
of the warrior...
pledging fidelity to
the three pillars of virtue.
The enemy possesses
none of these...
and therefore can be defeated.
Remember this when you
meet him on the battlefield.
Draw sword!
- Loyal.
- WARRIORS: Loyal!
- Brave.
- WARRIORS: Brave!
- True.
- WARRIORS: True!
SERGEANT QIANG: Return swords!
In!
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
Commander Tung, it's Hua Jun.
COMMANDER TUNG: You may enter.
Commander Tung,
there's something that weighs
heavily on my heart.
I need to confess it to you.
It has to do
with the three virtues.
There's no shame in being
fearful before battle.
In fact, it's a testament
to your honesty...
that you confess such doubt.
Yes, Commander.
But the other virtues...
Hua Jun.
You're a good man.
Perhaps one day
you could accompany me
to my village...
where I will introduce you
to my daughter.
And our village matchmaker,
of course.
Yes, Commander.
That's my great honor.
I look forward
to seeing your father's face
when you give him this news.
SERGEANT QIANG:
The Fourth Battalion.
This is the work of Bri Khan.
There's no one left.
MAN: The Mountain-Steppe
Garrison welcomes...
the Fifth Battalion of
His Majesty's Imperial Army.
SOLDIER: Scouts at the gate!
Bri Khan assembles not
a half day's ride from here.
They prepare for battle.
We're greatly outnumbered.
GARRISON COMMANDER:
Fortify for a siege!
No. He who moves first
controls the enemy.
We leave at first light.
Anything you want me
to tell your mothers
when you die?
- (LAUGHING)
- That's not funny.
What's the matter? Scared?
No.
Who knows who will live
past tomorrow?
We may never see
each other again.
My father once said...
"There is no courage
without fear."
So?
So this is natural.
Well, it doesn't feel natural.
(PO EXHALES SHARPLY)
Listen to me, all of you.
We will live.
I guarantee it.
Because I will protect you.
We'll protect each other.
We'll fight for each other.
Except for you, Yao.
I might take the opportunity
to kill you myself.
(ALL LAUGHING)
(ROURAN ARMY WHOOPING)
(INHALES SHARPLY)
SHADOW WARRIOR:
They've left the garrison.
A bold move
that changes nothing.
The plan continues.
Charge!
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
Spear men, open!
Archers, ready!
Raise!
(ROURAN ARMY SHOUTING)
(DRUMS BEATING)
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
Release!
(SOLDIERS GROANING)
The coward retreats!
Pursue them!
Left flank! Charge!
(CAVALRYMEN YELLING)
(GROANS)
(GROANS)
(BOTH GROAN)
(GASPS)
(ALL GROAN)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
(WARRIORS URGING HORSE)
(ROURAN WARRIOR WHOOPING
AND CHEERING)
(URGES HORSE)
- (GRUNTS)
- (HORSE WHINNIES)
You're a witch.
XIANNIANG: Am I?
And who are you?
I'm Hua Jun.
Soldier in the emperor's
Imperial Army.
(WHISPERS) Liar.
(MULAN GRUNTS)
Your deceit weakens you.
It poisons your chi.
(GROANS)
(GASPING)
(GRUNTS)
(ICE CRACKING)
(SIGHS)
I ask again...
who are you?
I'm Hua Jun.
Soldier in the emperor's
Imperial Army!
Then you will die
pretending to be
something you're not.
(GROANS)
(ALL GRUNTING)
ZHOU: And Hua Jun did die.
For a lie can only live so long.
But Mulan...
Mulan lived.
(CLATTERS)
MULAN: "True."
(MULAN GRUNTS)
ROURAN SOLDIER: Witch!
She's a witch!
(ROURAN ARMY CLAMORING)
(HAWK SCREAMING)
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
(WARRIORS GRUNTING)
Defensive position!
Don't run! We hold formation.
Now!
Fire!
No!
They're targeting us!
We're dead if we stay here!
(GRUNTING)
(WHISTLES)
(WHINNYING)
(GROANS)
(SOLDIERS GROANING)
Enemy on the ridge!
Turn around!
Fire! Fire!
Turn it around!
Move it! Move!
(SOLDIERS GRUNTING)
Fire!
(RUMBLING)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
(CRASHING)
(PANICKED YELLING)
(SOLDIER YELPING)
HONGHUI: Run!
- (CRICKET WHIMPERING)
- Cricket!
(GRUNTING)
(SCREAMS)
Go! Go! Go!
(GRUNTING)
MULAN: Honghui!
(YELPING)
Honghui!
(GRUNTING)
(RUMBLING STOPS)
(HONGHUI BREATHES DEEPLY)
(WARRIORS GRUNTING)
(WARRIORS COUGHING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
Gather yourselves.
Find your comrades.
The enemy has been defeated.
Sergeant Qiang, regroup the men.
Has anyone seen Hua Jun?
Have you seen Hua Jun?
Hua Jun?
I'm Hua Mulan.
Forgive me.
(WARRIORS MURMURING FAINTLY)
He's a girl?
You are an imposter.
You've betrayed the regiment.
You've brought disgrace
to the Hua family.
- Commander...
- Your deceit is my shame.
SERGEANT QIANG: Commander,
what is the punishment
assigned to this imposter?
Expulsion.
(BREATHES SHARPLY)
I would rather be executed.
SERGEANT QIANG:
From this moment forward,
you are expelled from
the emperor's Imperial Army.
COMMANDER TUNG:
If you show your face again...
your wish to be executed
will be granted.
(INHALES SHARPLY)
(SOBBING)
XIANNIANG:
You can never go home.
Your disgrace
is worse than death.
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
(MULAN GRUNTING)
I understand.
I was a girl like you
when people turned on me.
You don't think
I longed for a noble path?
I've lived a life of exile.
No country,
no village, no family.
We are the same.
- We're not.
- We are.
The more power I showed,
the more I was crushed.
Just like you.
You saved them today
and still they turned on you.
You are just at the beginning
of your power.
Merge your path with mine.
We will be stronger together.
You follow a coward.
A leader who runs from battle.
Bri Khan
did not run from battle.
That coward
will take the Imperial City...
and your emperor will fall.
That can't happen.
But it happens even now.
Join me.
We will take our place together.
(INHALES SHARPLY)
I know my place.
And it is my duty...
to fight for the kingdom
and protect the emperor.
(URGES HORSE)
MULAN: Commander Tung!
What is the meaning of this?
Commander Tung,
we must ride to the emperor.
His life is in danger.
The emperor's life
has never been safer.
That's what Bri Khan
wants you to believe.
Please,
you have to listen to me.
Sergeant, hand me my sword.
Kill me if you must.
But first, listen.
The garrison attacks
were just a distraction.
Khan has our army focused
on the Silk Road...
so he can sneak
into the Imperial City
and kill the emperor.
Bri Khan is already far ahead.
The Imperial Army
can't stop him now.
But perhaps a small,
well-trained force could.
When employed correctly...
four ounces
can move 1,000 pounds.
Only a foolish man listens to
someone whose very existence
is a lie.
You would believe Hua Jun.
Why do you not believe
Hua Mulan?
She risked everything by
revealing her true identity.
She's braver than any man here.
And she's the best warrior
amongst us.
- I believe Hua Mulan.
- I believe Hua Mulan.
YAO: I believe Hua Mulan.
PO: I believe Hua Mulan.
WARRIOR 1:
I believe Hua Mulan.
WARRIOR 2:
I believe Hua Mulan.
(GASPS SOFTLY)
(SIGHS)
Hua Mulan...
your actions have brought
disgrace and dishonor
to this regiment...
to this kingdom
and to your own family.
But your loyalty and bravery
are without question.
You will lead us as we ride
to the Imperial City.
Ready the horses.
(HAWK SCREAMS)
Your Majesty, a word.
In private.
Despite the Rouran army's
crushing defeat...
scouts have informed me
that Bri Khan
has infiltrated the city.
He assembles at the New Palace.
He offers a duel.
Prepare my guards.
We ride to the site immediately.
Your Majesty,
it is far too dangerous.
EMPEROR: Silence!
My people have suffered enough.
Now I must act.
I will kill this Bri Khan
like I killed his father.
With my own hands.
CHANCELLOR: Assemble
all Imperial guardsmen
immediately in this square.
That includes every guard
on every tower and every gate.
But who will protect the city?
You question the judgement
of His Majesty the Emperor?
Of course not, Chancellor.
I will see to it immediately.
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
It's time.
HONGHUI: The gates are open!
The streets are empty!
Why are there no guards?
Ambush!
Protect the emperor!
Clear her path!
Don't leave her side!
She must get through.
(ROURAN SOLDIERS SHOUTING)
(ALL GRUNTING)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(ROURAN SOLDIERS GROANING)
(YELPING)
(BRI KHAN CHUCKLES)
BRI KHAN: Surely you didn't
expect a fair fight?
How did you convince
my chancellor to betray me?
That was not your chancellor.
Now!
Join the others.
Take the city.
Kill every
last Imperial soldier.
You need to find the emperor.
We'll hold them back.
Till next we meet, Honghui.
(ALL YELLING)
Go! Go!
Bolt the door.
Bolt the door.
(GRUNTS)
(SIGHS)
Your Majesty, I'm Hua Mulan
from the Fifth Battalion.
I've come to protect you.
XIANNIANG: Impossible.
A woman leading a man's army.
Where's the emperor?
You were right.
We are the same.
XIANNIANG:
With one difference.
They accept you,
but they will never accept me.
You told me
my journey was impossible.
Yet here I stand.
Proof that there is a place
for people like us.
No.
It's too late for me.
MULAN: You can still take
the noble path.
It's not too late.
Please.
I need your help.
Where's the emperor?
(HAWK SCREAMS)
(ALL GRUNTING)
(MULAN GRUNTING)
They tell me
this palace is being built
in honor of your father.
And in honor of my father...
this is where you will die.
Or should I say "burn"?
Who will come to save you,
Son of Heaven?
Where are the sons
of the empire?
I will tell you.
Fallen to our swords.
Pierced by our arrows.
Who will save you?
(HAWK SCREAMS)
Why are you here?
The attack has met
a fierce resistance.
- BORI KHAN: From who?
- A young woman...
from a small village.
(SCOFFS) A girl?
A woman.
A warrior.
A woman leads the army.
And she's no scorned dog.
You led her here.
(HAWK SCREECHES)
(PAINED SCREECH)
Take your place...
Mulan.
(METAL CLATTERING)
(GRUNTS)
(GASPS)
(GRUNTING)
The girl who has come
to save the dynasty.
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(STRAINING)
- (MULAN GASPS)
- (GRUNTS)
No!
EMPEROR: Rise up.
You are a mighty warrior.
Rise up like a phoenix.
Fight for the kingdom
and its people.
(GRUNTS)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(GRUNTING)
(ROPE CREAKING)
(MULAN GASPING)
(BRI KHAN SCREAMING)
(GASPS)
(GRUNTING)
(ARROW THUDS)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(INHALES SHARPLY)
(GROANS)
(ALL CHUCKLE)
EMPEROR: Stand up, soldier.
Tell me your name.
(CROWD CHEERING)
Your Imperial Highness,
Hua Mulan.
Hua Mulan, the people owe you
a debt of thanks.
I owe you my life.
In gratitude for your service
and dedication...
I invite you
to take your place...
with our greatest
decorated warriors...
as an officer
in the Emperor's Guard.
Your Majesty...
I'm deeply honored by this
immeasurable invitation...
but with humble apologies...
I cannot accept it.
(SOFT GASPS)
I left home
under cover of darkness...
and betrayed my family's trust.
I made choices I knew
would risk their dishonor.
Since then...
I have pledged an oath...
to be loyal, brave, and true.
In order to fulfill this oath...
I must return home
and make amends to my family.
Very well, Hua Mulan.
Devotion to family
is an essential virtue.
HONGHUI: You can't leave.
The emperor
gives his permission...
but you do not?
We've not yet said goodbye.
Goodbye, Honghui.
You still won't take my hand?
I will see you again, Hua Mulan.
(MULAN URGES HORSE)
(CHUCKLES)
MAN: Mulan has returned!
- (DOG BARKS)
- Mulan!
(GROANS QUIETLY)
Mulan?
(GASPING)
Mother!
Mulan!
(INDISTINCT)
(GASPS)
(BOTH LAUGHING)
(XIU SNIFFLES)
There is so much
I have to ask you.
Tell me about you first.
I... I am matched!
What's he like?
He's handsome, a little shy,
but he's not afraid of spiders.
LI: Mulan!
MULAN: I'm so happy for you.
(LI SOBS)
(WHISPERS) Forgive me, Father.
I stole your horse...
I stole your sword,
I stole your armor.
(CRIES SOFTLY)
And the sword... I lost it.
The sword is gone.
Now I understand... (SNIFFLES)
how much that sword
means to you.
It is my daughter
that means everything to me.
And it is I should apologize.
My foolish pride drove you away.
One warrior knows another.
You were always there...
yet I see you
for the first time.
(ZHOU SIGHS)
(GASPS)
Hello, old friend.
Tung Yong...
I am honored to receive you
and the Emperor's Guard.
But if you are here
to discipline Mulan...
you have to get past me.
I do not believe
that will be necessary.
SERGEANT QIANG: Under order
of His Imperial Majesty
the Emperor,
we present this gift
to Hua Mulan.
She has saved the dynasty.
The entire kingdom
is in her debt.
- (VILLAGERS CHEERING)
- (WHIMPERING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
She has brought honor
to her ancestors...
to her family, to her village...
and to her country.
As befits a great warrior...
the sword is marked
with the pillars of virtue.
Loyal, brave, true.
And what is this fourth virtue
I see?
Read it aloud, Mulan.
"Devotion to family."
You have brought honor
to us all.
SERGEANT QIANG:
The emperor urges you
to reconsider his invitation
to join our greatest
decorated warriors...
as an officer
in the Emperor's Guard.
He awaits your decision.
ZHOU: The green shoot
has grown up to the sky...
and her ancestors celebrate her
in the vault of the heavens.
The girl became a soldier.
The soldier became a leader.
And the leader...
became a legend.
(SLOW-TEMPO POP MUSIC PLAYING)
War is not freedom
Over my shoulder
I see a clearer view
All for my family
Reason I'm breathing
Everything to lose
Should I ask myself in the water
What a warrior would do?
Tell me underneath my armor
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Losing is easy
Winning takes bravery
I am a tiger's fool
Out in the open
No one to save me
The kindest of whispers
are cruel
Should I ask myself in the water
What a warrior would do?
Tell me underneath my armor
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Cold is the morning
Warm is the dream
Chasing the answers
'Til I can't sleep
Will I be stronger
Or will I be weak
When you're not with me?
Who am I without my armor
Standing in my father's shoes?
All I know is that it's harder
To be loyal, brave, and true
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
Look at me
You may think you see
Who I really am
But you'll never know me
Every day
It's as if I play a part
Now I see
If I wear a mask
I can fool the world
But I cannot fool my heart
Who is that girl I see
Staring straight back at me?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
I am now
In a world
where I have to hide my heart
And what I believe in
But somehow
I will show the world
what's inside my heart
And be loved for who I am
Who is that girl I see
Staring straight back at me?
Why is my reflection someone
I don't know?
Must I pretend
That I'm someone else
for all time?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
There's a heart
that must be free
To fly
That burns with a need to know
The reason why
Why must we all conceal
What we think, how we feel?
Must there be a secret me
I'm forced to hide?
I won't pretend that I'm
Someone else for all time
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
(WOMAN SINGING IN MANDARIN)
many tales
of the great warrior, Mulan.
But, ancestors,
this one is mine.
Here she is.
A young shoot, all green...
unaware of the blade.
If you had such a daughter...
her chi, the boundless energy
of life itself...
speaking through
her every motion...
could you tell her that
only a son could wield chi?
That a daughter would risk
shame, dishonor, exile?
Ancestors, I could not.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(CHICKEN CLUCKING)
ZHOU: This way.
That's the last one.
Gently.
(CHICKEN SQUAWKING)
Mulan! Forget the chicken!
It will come back!
(CHICKEN SQUAWKING)
(GASPS)
No!
- (WOMAN SCREAMING)
- (CHICKEN CLUCKING)
Tell me your sister
is not the cause of this.
- (GASPS)
- (BABY CRIES)
Mulan!
- Take control of yourself!
- (GIGGLING)
(CLUCKING AND SQUAWKING)
(ALL EXCLAIMING)
- (GRUNTS)
- (CHICKEN CLUCKING)
ZHOU: Mulan!
Listen very carefully.
No!
(VILLAGERS GRUMBLING)
Mulan, what happened
when you fell off the roof?
It was like you were a bird.
Don't panic.
There's a spider
crawling in your hair.
You know I'm afraid of spiders.
This is not one of
your tricks, is it, Mulan?
Don't worry,
if you hold very still...
I will squash it.
LI: It is because I'm trying
to protect Mulan
that I say this.
Mulan is young.
She is still learning
how to control herself.
You make excuses for her.
You forget, Mulan is
a daughter, not a son.
A daughter brings honor
through marriage.
Any man would be fortunate to
marry either of our daughters.
Including Mulan.
I ask you, what man will want
to marry a girl
who flits around rooftops,
chasing chickens?
Xiu gives me no trouble.
The matchmaker will find
a good husband for her.
It is Mulan I worry about.
They'll call her a witch.
It's time you talked to her.
(ZHOU GRUNTS)
Do you know why the phoenix
sits at the entrance
of our shrine?
She is the emissary
for our ancestors.
But I broke her.
(CHUCKLES)
Some say the phoenix
is consumed by flame...
and emerges again.
I think she can survive
a broken wing.
Your chi is strong, Mulan.
But chi is for warriors...
not daughters.
Soon, you'll be a young woman...
and it is time for you...
to hide your gift away.
To...
To silence its voice.
I say this to protect you.
That is my job.
Your job is to bring honor
to the family.
(SNIFFLES)
Do you think you can do that?
(MEN SHOUTING INDISTINCTLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
Rourans? It can't be.
- Close the gates!
- (GUARDS SHOUT IN PANIC)
Take out the leader!
(PEOPLE EXCLAIM IN FEAR)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(YELLING)
(GRUNTING)
(SCREAMING)
GUARD: He's way too strong!
(PEOPLE SCREAMING)
XIANNIANG: You. You'll do.
CHANCELLOR: Your Majesty...
six of our northern garrisons
along the Silk Road...
have fallen
in a coordinated attack.
All trade has been disrupted.
If we allow this to continue,
it could be
the end of the kingdom.
And my citizens?
Slaughtered.
This soldier
is the only survivor.
I fear more attacks will follow.
Who is responsible?
Rourans, Your Majesty.
Their leader calls himself
Bri Khan.
I killed Bri Khan.
It is his son.
He has united the tribes
and resurrected the Rouran army.
If I may, Your Imperial Majesty.
EMPEROR: You may speak.
Bri Khan
fights alongside a woman.
Her chi is beyond imagining.
There is no place
for witches in this kingdom.
It is forbidden
to use the power of chi
in destructive ways.
And yet, it is her skill
that leads the Rouran army
to victory.
She has trained an elite force
of shadow warriors
to assist Bri Khan.
EMPEROR: We're not afraid
of dark magic.
We'll destroy this Rouran army
and their witch.
Here's my decree.
We'll build a mighty army.
Every family
will supply one man.
We'll protect
our beloved people...
and crush these murderers.
Deploy the Imperial Army.
The dynasty
will not be threatened.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
(HAWK SCREAMS)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
BRI KHAN: So, you have news.
XIANNIANG:
The emperor sends his army
to defend the Silk Road.
BRI KHAN: Good.
We will crush every garrison
until the Imperial Army
is on its knees.
And then...
the Imperial City
will be laid bare.
The emperor
will be mine to kill.
You have proved useful, witch.
XIANNIANG: Not witch.
Warrior.
(EXHALES SHAKILY)
I could tear you to pieces
before you blink.
BRI KHAN: But you won't.
Remember what you want...
a place where your powers
will not be vilified.
A place where you are accepted
for who you are.
You won't get what you want
without me.
When I found you
on a desert steppe
wandering alone...
you were exiled.
A scorned dog.
When I sit on the throne,
that dog will have a home.
(CHUCKLES)
We will finish what we started.
And you will see to it
that nothing and no one
stands in my way.
(URGES HORSE)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
Black Wind and I rode alongside
two rabbits
running side by side.
I think one was a male,
one was a female.
But you know,
you can't really tell
when they're running that fast.
When I go riding tomorrow,
I will try to find them again.
Maybe they'll still be there.
We have excellent news.
The matchmaker has found you
an auspicious match.
Yes, Mulan, it is decided.
Come and sit down.
(XIU SIGHS)
It is what is best
for our family.
Yes.
It is best.
I will bring honor to us all.
(SNEEZES)
I'm truly blessed
to be in the presence
of such enchanting women.
I have no doubt today will be
a momentous day for the Hua...
Never mind that.
We must be on time.
MULAN: I'm starving.
I already told you,
you cannot eat.
It will ruin your makeup.
The fiercest winter storm
could not destroy this makeup.
Xiu, look at my face.
What am I feeling?
XIU: I have no idea.
(WHISPERS) Exactly.
This is my sad face.
This is my curious face.
And now I'm confused.
(BOTH LAUGHING)
Quiet.
Composed.
Graceful.
Elegant.
Poised.
Polite.
These are the qualities...
we see in a good wife.
These are the qualities...
we see in Mulan.
When a wife
serves her husband...
(GULPS)
she must be silent.
(EXHALES DEEPLY)
She must be...
invisible.
She must be...
Is something wrong?
No, Madam Matchmaker.
Thank you.
It's ideal for the teapot...
to remain
in the center of the table.
MULAN: Yes, I understand.
But I think the teapot
should remain where it is.
Move the teapot.
Girl!
(SCREAMING)
(ALL SCREAM)
(ALL WHIMPERING)
Dishonor to the Hua family.
They have failed
to raise a good daughter.
(VILLAGERS MURMURING)
(DRUMS BEATING)
VILLAGE MAGISTRATE: Citizens!
Citizens, we are under attack
from Northern Invaders.
Our land is at war.
By edict
of His Imperial Majesty,
the Son of Heaven...
every family must contribute
one man to fight.
One man from every house.
Wng family.
Chin family.
D family.
Hua family.
I am Hua Zhou.
I served the Imperial Army
in the last battle
against the Northern Invaders.
Have you no son
old enough to fight?
I am blessed with two daughters.
I will fight.
- (VILLAGERS GASP)
- No.
You will
only humiliate him further.
Are you all right?
Can I help you?
ZHOU: No. (GRUNTS)
VILLAGE MAGISTRATE:
Liu family.
Wei family.
LI: You're a war hero.
You've already made
many great sacrifices.
Are you suggesting...
our family not comply
with the Imperial edict?
But how can you fight...
I am the father.
It is my place to bring honor
to our family
on the battlefield.
You are the daughter!
Learn your place.
(DOOR SLAMS)
LI: We must be strong.
This time, he will not return.
(SWORD UNSHEATHES)
(GRUNTS SOFTLY)
MULAN: It's beautiful.
ZHOU: Beautiful tool...
for terrible work.
The phoenix.
You remember?
(CHUCKLES)
She has followed me
into battle before,
and she will follow me now.
And she will tell our
ancestors I've been loyal...
brave, and true.
I wish I was as brave as you.
There is no courage
without fear.
But, Father...
You must be courageous, Mulan.
For your mother
and your sister.
For me.
It is my duty to fight.
My honor to sacrifice
for the emperor.
If I were your son,
you wouldn't have to.
I would change nothing
about my life.
We should all get some rest.
I'm leaving in the morning.
(FOOTSTEPS RECEDING)
"Loyal, brave, and true."
ZHOU: My sword.
My armor! It's gone!
Who would do such a thing?
The conscription scroll.
It was Mulan.
LI: You must stop her.
The Northern Invaders
will kill her!
If I expose her lie,
our own people will kill her.
(THUNDER RUMBLING)
ZHOU: Ancestors,
honored phoenix...
ancestral guardian,
I beseech you...
watch over my daughter, Mulan.
She has made a terrible mistake.
I taught her too late
to know her place.
I indulged her.
She is innocent of the world.
Of men.
And the evils of war.
And now she's in great danger.
Please, honored phoenix...
protect her.
MULAN: Our last apple.
You need it more than I do.
We should be there by now.
Do you think we are lost?
(WINGS FLUTTERING)
The phoenix.
ZHOU: There were men gathering
from all over the kingdom.
An alien
and savage tribe to her.
To hide amongst them, she knew
she must become one of them.
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
I'm Cricket.
My mother says I was born
under an auspicious moon.
That is why my mother says
I'm a good luck charm.
(LAUGHING)
Ow.
- (GRUNTS)
- (MULAN GROANS)
MAN: (CHUCKLES)
Need a hand, little man?
(IN DEEP VOICE)
Insult me again,
and you'll taste
the tip of my blade.
- Lower your sword.
- Or what?
(ALL GRUNTING)
I'm your commanding officer.
Fighting will not be
tolerated. Am I clear?
Yes, Commander.
With your voice, soldier.
(CONTINUING IN DEEP VOICE)
Yes, Commander.
What is your name?
Hua Jun, Commander.
Is this your family sword?
It belongs to my father,
Hua Zhou.
COMMANDER TUNG: Fall in line.
(MEN LAUGHING)
Sorry, Ling! (LAUGHING)
LING: Yao, give it back!
It's not funny!
YAO: Po, catch!
(MEN CONTINUE LAUGHING)
I told you to line up
for showers.
- Showers?
- Showers.
You lot stink.
And I need a volunteer
- for night guard duty.
- Me!
I mean, I volunteer, sir.
(MEN SNORING)
(SNORING CONTINUES)
(BREATHES DEEPLY)
(GASPS)
(SNORING)
SERGEANT QIANG: Stealing.
Penalty, death.
Desertion. Penalty, death.
Bring women into camp
or consorting with women
in any way.
- Penalty, death.
- (SIGHS)
Dishonesty.
Penalty...
expulsion, disgrace.
Disgrace for you,
disgrace for your family...
disgrace for your village,
disgrace for your country.
We're going to make men
out of every single one of you.
(MEN GROANING)
Ow.
Fire!
(MAN GRUNTS)
Only the strongest
will reach the summit.
It will take
everything you have.
(MEN GRUNTING)
Straighten out those arms.
Keep them up. Shoulder level.
(GROANS)
Keep your mind strong.
- Don't stop.
- (SNIFFLES)
Is he crying?
(CRYING)
(CRICKET MOANS)
Fire!
Fire!
- Give that back!
- (GOBBLES)
(LAUGHTER)
(ALL GRUNTING IN UNISON)
(PANTING)
(MEN GRUNTING)
Longwei!
Report to the barracks
immediately.
Immediately.
Dishonesty.
Penalty, expulsion.
Disgrace.
LING: We were matched
28 days ago.
Her name is Li Li.
Her skin is white as milk.
Her fingers like the tender
white roots of a green onion.
Ling is a romantic!
Her eyes
are like morning dewdrops...
I like my women buxom.
(LAUGHS)
With strong, wide hips.
I like kissing women
with cherry red lips.
I don't care
what she looks like.
- I agree.
- I care what she cooks like.
(LAUGHING)
Tell us, Hua Jun.
What's your ideal woman?
My ideal woman is courageous.
- A courageous woman?
- MULAN: Yes.
(SCOFFS)
(MEN LAUGHING)
And she has a sense of humor.
- She's also smart.
- Smart?
Well, what does she look like?
That's not the point.
Courageous, funny, smart.
Hua Jun's not describing
a woman...
(GRUNTS)
he's describing me.
(LAUGHS)
That's not you, Yao.
That's definitely not you.
(LAUGHS)
Not you.
(ALL LAUGHING)
PO: Not you.
(MEN CONTINUE LAUGHING)
HONGHUI: Hua Jun.
Don't let them bother you.
Especially that donkey Yao.
(HONGHUI GRUNTS)
(HONGHUI SIGHS)
Are you matched? Can I ask?
No.
I mean, yes. I was.
(CLEARS THROAT) Almost.
Didn't work out.
Lucky you.
I mean, how do you
even begin to know
how to talk to a woman...
let alone be married to one?
Just talk to her like
you are talking to me now.
HONGHUI: (CHUCKLES)
Yeah, I wish it was that easy.
What if she doesn't like me?
She will.
I mean,
I think she will, you know?
You never know with women.
(HONGHUI SNIFFING)
You should really consider
skipping guard duty
and taking a shower.
You stink, my friend.
(SNIFFING)
(ALL GRUNTING IN UNISON)
(CHUCKLES)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(MEN EXCLAIMING)
(PO CHUCKLES)
(HONGHUI GASPS)
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(CHUCKLES)
- (MEN EXCLAIMING)
- (CHUCKLES)
You idiot.
Now everyone sees it.
You must hide your chi!
YAO: Hua Jun! (LAUGHS)
Who knew?
PO: What a killer!
(CHUCKLES)
(SNIFFS) You reek, soldier.
Have you even showered once yet?
You smell bad.
YAO: Mm-hmm.
(PO LAUGHS)
(RUSTLING)
- HONGHUI: Hua Jun.
- (GASPS)
I'm glad I found you.
I see you're finally
getting clean.
The Fifth Battalion thanks you.
I came here to be alone.
HONGHUI: What was that today?
It was incredible.
- I don't wanna talk about it.
- HONGHUI: Why not?
(BREATHES SHARPLY)
I can't believe all this time
you've been keeping
your skill a secret.
What else have you been hiding?
Nothing.
Leave me alone.
Hua Jun, we started off
on the wrong foot.
Can we be friends?
I'm not your friend.
Very well.
But you are my equal.
We fight together
against the same enemy.
I will do all I can
to protect the others.
You can turn your back on me...
but when the time comes,
do not turn your back on them.
(EXHALES DEEPLY)
(INDISTINCT CHATTER)
BRI KHAN:
I welcome the leaders
of the 12 Rouran tribes...
as we approach
the final victory.
Soon the Imperial City
will be ours.
But we're relying on a witch.
- (MEN GRUMBLING)
- MAN 1: Yes, a witch.
MAN 2: A witch
cannot be trusted!
- BRI KHAN: She is no threat.
- (MEN CONTINUE GRUMBLING)
- (HAWK SHRIEKS)
- Hush! Enough!
Make no mistake...
the witch serves me
and therefore, all of us.
She knows who her master is.
Consider our future.
This, my friends...
is just a small taste
of what is to come.
From the Imperial City ahead,
riches will flow
like a mighty river.
I don't care about riches.
How much gold can a nomad carry?
(CLATTERS)
Then, I will give you revenge...
for the land we lost
to the empire.
For the shame of the last war.
For my father,
who the emperor killed.
If gold is not enough...
I will give you blood.
Sharpen your swords.
Our time has come.
XIANNIANG: Now I know.
I serve you.
I am the slave.
BRI KHAN: And you would
do well to remember it.
Over there, witch.
The next garrison.
Destroy it.
SERGEANT QIANG: Hua Jun.
Report to Commander Tung.
(SIGHS)
GUARD: Hua Jun, Commander.
Enter.
Hua Jun.
It seems you have been
hiding something.
- Commander...
- I sensed it
the moment I met you.
But now I'm sure.
You see,
I have a secret as well.
I know your father.
He was a great soldier.
In you, Hua Jun...
I see the shadow of his sword.
Perhaps this shadow
falls heavy on your shoulders.
You can't allow your father's
legacy to hold you back.
You need to cultivate your gift.
Sir.
Your chi is powerful, Hua Jun.
Why do you hide it?
I... I don't know.
COMMANDER TUNG:
The chi pervades the universe
and all living things.
We are all born with it.
But only the most true will
connect deeply to his chi...
and become a great warrior.
Tranquil as a forest...
but on fire within.
The Rouran enemy is vast.
They are ruthless
and unpredictable.
Yet physical force
need not be met
with equal force.
The warrior yields to force
and redirects it.
Disadvantage can be turned
into an advantage.
Four ounces
can move 1,000 pounds.
(BREATHING HEAVILY)
(PANTING)
(EXHALES SHARPLY)
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
(PEOPLE SCREAMING)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(GUARD SCREAMING)
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
The garrisons continue to fall
to the Northern Invaders.
We have been called to war,
even though our training
is not finished.
SERGEANT QIANG:
We leave to defend
the Mountain-Steppe Garrison
against the Rouran invader.
Up until now, you've been
boys playing soldiers.
Today, you become men.
You will now take the oath
of the warrior...
pledging fidelity to
the three pillars of virtue.
The enemy possesses
none of these...
and therefore can be defeated.
Remember this when you
meet him on the battlefield.
Draw sword!
- Loyal.
- WARRIORS: Loyal!
- Brave.
- WARRIORS: Brave!
- True.
- WARRIORS: True!
SERGEANT QIANG: Return swords!
In!
(BREATHES SHAKILY)
Commander Tung, it's Hua Jun.
COMMANDER TUNG: You may enter.
Commander Tung,
there's something that weighs
heavily on my heart.
I need to confess it to you.
It has to do
with the three virtues.
There's no shame in being
fearful before battle.
In fact, it's a testament
to your honesty...
that you confess such doubt.
Yes, Commander.
But the other virtues...
Hua Jun.
You're a good man.
Perhaps one day
you could accompany me
to my village...
where I will introduce you
to my daughter.
And our village matchmaker,
of course.
Yes, Commander.
That's my great honor.
I look forward
to seeing your father's face
when you give him this news.
SERGEANT QIANG:
The Fourth Battalion.
This is the work of Bri Khan.
There's no one left.
MAN: The Mountain-Steppe
Garrison welcomes...
the Fifth Battalion of
His Majesty's Imperial Army.
SOLDIER: Scouts at the gate!
Bri Khan assembles not
a half day's ride from here.
They prepare for battle.
We're greatly outnumbered.
GARRISON COMMANDER:
Fortify for a siege!
No. He who moves first
controls the enemy.
We leave at first light.
Anything you want me
to tell your mothers
when you die?
- (LAUGHING)
- That's not funny.
What's the matter? Scared?
No.
Who knows who will live
past tomorrow?
We may never see
each other again.
My father once said...
"There is no courage
without fear."
So?
So this is natural.
Well, it doesn't feel natural.
(PO EXHALES SHARPLY)
Listen to me, all of you.
We will live.
I guarantee it.
Because I will protect you.
We'll protect each other.
We'll fight for each other.
Except for you, Yao.
I might take the opportunity
to kill you myself.
(ALL LAUGHING)
(ROURAN ARMY WHOOPING)
(INHALES SHARPLY)
SHADOW WARRIOR:
They've left the garrison.
A bold move
that changes nothing.
The plan continues.
Charge!
(ROURAN ARMY YELLING)
Spear men, open!
Archers, ready!
Raise!
(ROURAN ARMY SHOUTING)
(DRUMS BEATING)
(SHOUTING CONTINUES)
Release!
(SOLDIERS GROANING)
The coward retreats!
Pursue them!
Left flank! Charge!
(CAVALRYMEN YELLING)
(GROANS)
(GROANS)
(BOTH GROAN)
(GASPS)
(ALL GROAN)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
(WARRIORS URGING HORSE)
(ROURAN WARRIOR WHOOPING
AND CHEERING)
(URGES HORSE)
- (GRUNTS)
- (HORSE WHINNIES)
You're a witch.
XIANNIANG: Am I?
And who are you?
I'm Hua Jun.
Soldier in the emperor's
Imperial Army.
(WHISPERS) Liar.
(MULAN GRUNTS)
Your deceit weakens you.
It poisons your chi.
(GROANS)
(GASPING)
(GRUNTS)
(ICE CRACKING)
(SIGHS)
I ask again...
who are you?
I'm Hua Jun.
Soldier in the emperor's
Imperial Army!
Then you will die
pretending to be
something you're not.
(GROANS)
(ALL GRUNTING)
ZHOU: And Hua Jun did die.
For a lie can only live so long.
But Mulan...
Mulan lived.
(CLATTERS)
MULAN: "True."
(MULAN GRUNTS)
ROURAN SOLDIER: Witch!
She's a witch!
(ROURAN ARMY CLAMORING)
(HAWK SCREAMING)
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
(WARRIORS GRUNTING)
Defensive position!
Don't run! We hold formation.
Now!
Fire!
No!
They're targeting us!
We're dead if we stay here!
(GRUNTING)
(WHISTLES)
(WHINNYING)
(GROANS)
(SOLDIERS GROANING)
Enemy on the ridge!
Turn around!
Fire! Fire!
Turn it around!
Move it! Move!
(SOLDIERS GRUNTING)
Fire!
(RUMBLING)
(HORSE WHINNIES)
(CRASHING)
(PANICKED YELLING)
(SOLDIER YELPING)
HONGHUI: Run!
- (CRICKET WHIMPERING)
- Cricket!
(GRUNTING)
(SCREAMS)
Go! Go! Go!
(GRUNTING)
MULAN: Honghui!
(YELPING)
Honghui!
(GRUNTING)
(RUMBLING STOPS)
(HONGHUI BREATHES DEEPLY)
(WARRIORS GRUNTING)
(WARRIORS COUGHING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
Gather yourselves.
Find your comrades.
The enemy has been defeated.
Sergeant Qiang, regroup the men.
Has anyone seen Hua Jun?
Have you seen Hua Jun?
Hua Jun?
I'm Hua Mulan.
Forgive me.
(WARRIORS MURMURING FAINTLY)
He's a girl?
You are an imposter.
You've betrayed the regiment.
You've brought disgrace
to the Hua family.
- Commander...
- Your deceit is my shame.
SERGEANT QIANG: Commander,
what is the punishment
assigned to this imposter?
Expulsion.
(BREATHES SHARPLY)
I would rather be executed.
SERGEANT QIANG:
From this moment forward,
you are expelled from
the emperor's Imperial Army.
COMMANDER TUNG:
If you show your face again...
your wish to be executed
will be granted.
(INHALES SHARPLY)
(SOBBING)
XIANNIANG:
You can never go home.
Your disgrace
is worse than death.
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
(MULAN GRUNTING)
I understand.
I was a girl like you
when people turned on me.
You don't think
I longed for a noble path?
I've lived a life of exile.
No country,
no village, no family.
We are the same.
- We're not.
- We are.
The more power I showed,
the more I was crushed.
Just like you.
You saved them today
and still they turned on you.
You are just at the beginning
of your power.
Merge your path with mine.
We will be stronger together.
You follow a coward.
A leader who runs from battle.
Bri Khan
did not run from battle.
That coward
will take the Imperial City...
and your emperor will fall.
That can't happen.
But it happens even now.
Join me.
We will take our place together.
(INHALES SHARPLY)
I know my place.
And it is my duty...
to fight for the kingdom
and protect the emperor.
(URGES HORSE)
MULAN: Commander Tung!
What is the meaning of this?
Commander Tung,
we must ride to the emperor.
His life is in danger.
The emperor's life
has never been safer.
That's what Bri Khan
wants you to believe.
Please,
you have to listen to me.
Sergeant, hand me my sword.
Kill me if you must.
But first, listen.
The garrison attacks
were just a distraction.
Khan has our army focused
on the Silk Road...
so he can sneak
into the Imperial City
and kill the emperor.
Bri Khan is already far ahead.
The Imperial Army
can't stop him now.
But perhaps a small,
well-trained force could.
When employed correctly...
four ounces
can move 1,000 pounds.
Only a foolish man listens to
someone whose very existence
is a lie.
You would believe Hua Jun.
Why do you not believe
Hua Mulan?
She risked everything by
revealing her true identity.
She's braver than any man here.
And she's the best warrior
amongst us.
- I believe Hua Mulan.
- I believe Hua Mulan.
YAO: I believe Hua Mulan.
PO: I believe Hua Mulan.
WARRIOR 1:
I believe Hua Mulan.
WARRIOR 2:
I believe Hua Mulan.
(GASPS SOFTLY)
(SIGHS)
Hua Mulan...
your actions have brought
disgrace and dishonor
to this regiment...
to this kingdom
and to your own family.
But your loyalty and bravery
are without question.
You will lead us as we ride
to the Imperial City.
Ready the horses.
(HAWK SCREAMS)
Your Majesty, a word.
In private.
Despite the Rouran army's
crushing defeat...
scouts have informed me
that Bri Khan
has infiltrated the city.
He assembles at the New Palace.
He offers a duel.
Prepare my guards.
We ride to the site immediately.
Your Majesty,
it is far too dangerous.
EMPEROR: Silence!
My people have suffered enough.
Now I must act.
I will kill this Bri Khan
like I killed his father.
With my own hands.
CHANCELLOR: Assemble
all Imperial guardsmen
immediately in this square.
That includes every guard
on every tower and every gate.
But who will protect the city?
You question the judgement
of His Majesty the Emperor?
Of course not, Chancellor.
I will see to it immediately.
(BIRDS SCREECHING)
It's time.
HONGHUI: The gates are open!
The streets are empty!
Why are there no guards?
Ambush!
Protect the emperor!
Clear her path!
Don't leave her side!
She must get through.
(ROURAN SOLDIERS SHOUTING)
(ALL GRUNTING)
(GUARDS GROANING)
(ROURAN SOLDIERS GROANING)
(YELPING)
(BRI KHAN CHUCKLES)
BRI KHAN: Surely you didn't
expect a fair fight?
How did you convince
my chancellor to betray me?
That was not your chancellor.
Now!
Join the others.
Take the city.
Kill every
last Imperial soldier.
You need to find the emperor.
We'll hold them back.
Till next we meet, Honghui.
(ALL YELLING)
Go! Go!
Bolt the door.
Bolt the door.
(GRUNTS)
(SIGHS)
Your Majesty, I'm Hua Mulan
from the Fifth Battalion.
I've come to protect you.
XIANNIANG: Impossible.
A woman leading a man's army.
Where's the emperor?
You were right.
We are the same.
XIANNIANG:
With one difference.
They accept you,
but they will never accept me.
You told me
my journey was impossible.
Yet here I stand.
Proof that there is a place
for people like us.
No.
It's too late for me.
MULAN: You can still take
the noble path.
It's not too late.
Please.
I need your help.
Where's the emperor?
(HAWK SCREAMS)
(ALL GRUNTING)
(MULAN GRUNTING)
They tell me
this palace is being built
in honor of your father.
And in honor of my father...
this is where you will die.
Or should I say "burn"?
Who will come to save you,
Son of Heaven?
Where are the sons
of the empire?
I will tell you.
Fallen to our swords.
Pierced by our arrows.
Who will save you?
(HAWK SCREAMS)
Why are you here?
The attack has met
a fierce resistance.
- BORI KHAN: From who?
- A young woman...
from a small village.
(SCOFFS) A girl?
A woman.
A warrior.
A woman leads the army.
And she's no scorned dog.
You led her here.
(HAWK SCREECHES)
(PAINED SCREECH)
Take your place...
Mulan.
(METAL CLATTERING)
(GRUNTS)
(GASPS)
(GRUNTING)
The girl who has come
to save the dynasty.
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(STRAINING)
- (MULAN GASPS)
- (GRUNTS)
No!
EMPEROR: Rise up.
You are a mighty warrior.
Rise up like a phoenix.
Fight for the kingdom
and its people.
(GRUNTS)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(GRUNTING)
(ROPE CREAKING)
(MULAN GASPING)
(BRI KHAN SCREAMING)
(GASPS)
(GRUNTING)
(ARROW THUDS)
(BOTH GRUNTING)
(INHALES SHARPLY)
(GROANS)
(ALL CHUCKLE)
EMPEROR: Stand up, soldier.
Tell me your name.
(CROWD CHEERING)
Your Imperial Highness,
Hua Mulan.
Hua Mulan, the people owe you
a debt of thanks.
I owe you my life.
In gratitude for your service
and dedication...
I invite you
to take your place...
with our greatest
decorated warriors...
as an officer
in the Emperor's Guard.
Your Majesty...
I'm deeply honored by this
immeasurable invitation...
but with humble apologies...
I cannot accept it.
(SOFT GASPS)
I left home
under cover of darkness...
and betrayed my family's trust.
I made choices I knew
would risk their dishonor.
Since then...
I have pledged an oath...
to be loyal, brave, and true.
In order to fulfill this oath...
I must return home
and make amends to my family.
Very well, Hua Mulan.
Devotion to family
is an essential virtue.
HONGHUI: You can't leave.
The emperor
gives his permission...
but you do not?
We've not yet said goodbye.
Goodbye, Honghui.
You still won't take my hand?
I will see you again, Hua Mulan.
(MULAN URGES HORSE)
(CHUCKLES)
MAN: Mulan has returned!
- (DOG BARKS)
- Mulan!
(GROANS QUIETLY)
Mulan?
(GASPING)
Mother!
Mulan!
(INDISTINCT)
(GASPS)
(BOTH LAUGHING)
(XIU SNIFFLES)
There is so much
I have to ask you.
Tell me about you first.
I... I am matched!
What's he like?
He's handsome, a little shy,
but he's not afraid of spiders.
LI: Mulan!
MULAN: I'm so happy for you.
(LI SOBS)
(WHISPERS) Forgive me, Father.
I stole your horse...
I stole your sword,
I stole your armor.
(CRIES SOFTLY)
And the sword... I lost it.
The sword is gone.
Now I understand... (SNIFFLES)
how much that sword
means to you.
It is my daughter
that means everything to me.
And it is I should apologize.
My foolish pride drove you away.
One warrior knows another.
You were always there...
yet I see you
for the first time.
(ZHOU SIGHS)
(GASPS)
Hello, old friend.
Tung Yong...
I am honored to receive you
and the Emperor's Guard.
But if you are here
to discipline Mulan...
you have to get past me.
I do not believe
that will be necessary.
SERGEANT QIANG: Under order
of His Imperial Majesty
the Emperor,
we present this gift
to Hua Mulan.
She has saved the dynasty.
The entire kingdom
is in her debt.
- (VILLAGERS CHEERING)
- (WHIMPERING)
COMMANDER TUNG:
She has brought honor
to her ancestors...
to her family, to her village...
and to her country.
As befits a great warrior...
the sword is marked
with the pillars of virtue.
Loyal, brave, true.
And what is this fourth virtue
I see?
Read it aloud, Mulan.
"Devotion to family."
You have brought honor
to us all.
SERGEANT QIANG:
The emperor urges you
to reconsider his invitation
to join our greatest
decorated warriors...
as an officer
in the Emperor's Guard.
He awaits your decision.
ZHOU: The green shoot
has grown up to the sky...
and her ancestors celebrate her
in the vault of the heavens.
The girl became a soldier.
The soldier became a leader.
And the leader...
became a legend.
(SLOW-TEMPO POP MUSIC PLAYING)
War is not freedom
Over my shoulder
I see a clearer view
All for my family
Reason I'm breathing
Everything to lose
Should I ask myself in the water
What a warrior would do?
Tell me underneath my armor
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Losing is easy
Winning takes bravery
I am a tiger's fool
Out in the open
No one to save me
The kindest of whispers
are cruel
Should I ask myself in the water
What a warrior would do?
Tell me underneath my armor
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Am I loyal, brave, and true?
Cold is the morning
Warm is the dream
Chasing the answers
'Til I can't sleep
Will I be stronger
Or will I be weak
When you're not with me?
Who am I without my armor
Standing in my father's shoes?
All I know is that it's harder
To be loyal, brave, and true
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
Look at me
You may think you see
Who I really am
But you'll never know me
Every day
It's as if I play a part
Now I see
If I wear a mask
I can fool the world
But I cannot fool my heart
Who is that girl I see
Staring straight back at me?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
I am now
In a world
where I have to hide my heart
And what I believe in
But somehow
I will show the world
what's inside my heart
And be loved for who I am
Who is that girl I see
Staring straight back at me?
Why is my reflection someone
I don't know?
Must I pretend
That I'm someone else
for all time?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
There's a heart
that must be free
To fly
That burns with a need to know
The reason why
Why must we all conceal
What we think, how we feel?
Must there be a secret me
I'm forced to hide?
I won't pretend that I'm
Someone else for all time
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
When will my reflection show
Who I am inside?
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING)
(WOMAN SINGING IN MANDARIN)