Mulan

Mulan

Year: 2020

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Niki Caro

ActionAdventureDramaFantasyFamily

In ancient China, a courageous young woman disguises herself as a man to take her injured father's place in the Imperial Army. Assuming the identity of Hua Jun, she faces rigorous training and perilous battles, demonstrating remarkable skill and bravery. Along her journey, Mulan confronts personal struggles, discovers her inner strength, and earns the respect of her fellow soldiers and her nation, ultimately striving to protect her family's honor.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Mulan (2020) – Ending Explained & Final Scene Breakdown

Still thinking about how Mulan (2020) ended? Here’s a full breakdown of the ending, key final moments, major twists, and the deeper meaning behind the film’s conclusion.

Mulan’s journey culminates in her embracing her true identity, which brings a sense of wholeness and self-acceptance. Throughout the film, she disguises herself as a man, motivated by the desire to protect her family and her country. However, this deception creates internal conflict because it weakens her spirit, or “Chi,” and distances her from her true self. The pivotal moment arrives when Mulan chooses to stop pretending and reveals her long hair, symbolizing her declaration of independence and self-love.

By accepting who she really is, Mulan transforms from a misfit into a hero not because of her deception but due to her courage to be authentic. Her shattered dreams are restored, and her inner strength shines through as she radiates confidence and self-belief. This act of honesty not only saves her life but also allows her to live in harmony with her true self, proving that true heroism comes from embracing one’s authentic identity.

The film’s metaphors of the Phoenix and the Eagle deepen this message. The Phoenix, rising from ashes to become a blazing flame, mirrors Mulan’s own rebirth through self-acceptance. Conversely, the Eagle symbolizes the antagonist’s arrogance and belief that he is destined to die unrecognized. In the end, the clash between these two symbols underscores the victory of humility, bravery, and authenticity over arrogance and self-doubt. Ultimately, Mulan’s sacrifice and honesty empower her to become a legend, not by pretending to be someone else, but by standing firmly as herself. Her journey shows that true strength lies in being faithful to one’s inner truth, inspiring others to find the courage to do the same.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:57

Unlock the Full Story of Mulan

Don't stop at just watching — explore Mulan in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Mulan is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Mulan Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Mulan, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Mulan Summary

Mulan Timeline

Track the full timeline of Mulan with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Mulan Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Mulan

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Mulan. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Mulan

More About Mulan

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