In the backdrop of Imperial China, we follow the journey of the spirited Hua Mulan, portrayed by Yifei Liu. Mulan is no ordinary girl; she is brimming with adventure and vigor, much to the dismay of her parents, Tzi Ma and Rosalind Chao, who hope to find her a suitable husband one day. Although she longs to bring honor to her family, Mulan's independent streak shines through with her skill in martial arts, a talent unrecognized for girls in her society.
From a young age, Mulan proves her capabilities when she deftly captures a chicken that has strayed onto the roof. Her adeptness earns her scorn from the community, who believe her actions may taint her family's honor. Despite societal expectations, she is determined to forge her own path.
When she is presented to a matchmaker (Cheng Pei-Pei) in the hopes of passing as an ideal bride, Mulan feels the weight of tradition pressing upon her. Dressed in extravagant gowns and adorned with heavy makeup, she falters during the tea ceremony, leading to an embarrassing mishap that stains her family's name further.
Meanwhile, in the north, a fierce threat looms as Böri Khan, played by Jason Scott Lee, leads the Rouran warriors in an invasion, determined to avenge his father's death at the hands of the Emperor (Jet Li). Assisted by the powerful witch, Xian Lang (Li Gong), they launch a devastating attack that disrupts trade and threatens the very fabric of the empire.
As the Emperor initiates a conscription order, insisting every family contribute a male combatant, Mulan's father, lacking sons, is compelled to enlist despite his injuries. Understanding the grave risk her father faces, Mulan dons his armor, steals away during the night, and bravely takes his place in battle.
In the rugged mountains, guided by a majestic Phoenix that symbolizes her family's protection, Mulan arrives at the training camp helmed by Donnie Yen as Commander Tung. Here, she keeps her identity secret while embracing rigorous training alongside fellow recruits like Ling (Jimmy Wong), Yao (Chen Tang), and Chien-Po (Doua Moua). The dynamic grows as she competes against Chen Honghui (Yoson An), who becomes a close ally.
Under Commander Tung's mentorship, Mulan learns invaluable combat skills, transforming from a hesitant recruit into a formidable soldier. As the Rouran threat escalates, Mulan employs her cunning to turn the tide in battles, cleverly using surplus helmets to misdirect the enemy’s artillery, causing an avalanche that buries Khan's forces.
However, Mulan's true identity is soon discovered, leading to her expulsion from the army. Yet, she cannot abandon her comrades. Confronted by Xian Lang, Mulan learns about the looming danger threatening the Emperor, compelling her to return and alert her battalion. Her bravery is acknowledged when her fellow soldiers rally to defend her honor.
With time running out and Bori Khan poised to attack the Imperial City, Mulan spearheads a courageous mission to rescue the Emperor. She faces Bori in an intense confrontation where sacrifices are made, especially by Xian Lang, who ultimately embraces her powers to save Mulan from an arrow meant for her.
In a climactic battle, Mulan manages to defeat Bori Khan, freeing the Emperor from peril. Offered a prestigious position among the Emperor's personal guard, Mulan chooses instead to return to her village. The journey concludes with a heartfelt reunion with her family, followed by an emissary's arrival from the Emperor, extending an invitation for Mulan to join the Imperial Army as an esteemed officer under the watchful eye of Commander Tung.
