Mulan!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today, we’re celebrating the 28th anniversary of Mulan! I was even lucky enough to ask animator Ric Sluiter; who worked on the film, voice actor Jack Gilpin who voiced Bai and Big Twin Hun #1, actress Miriam Margoyles who voiced the matchmaker, and Barry Cook who was the co-director; a couple of questions!

The story of “Mulan” began long before Disney animators set pencil to paper. Its roots lie in the Chinese ballad of Hua Mulan, a folk heroine who disguised herself as a man to take her father’s place in battle. Passed down for centuries through poetry, plays, and storytelling, the tale celebrated themes of bravery, loyalty, and identity; making it a natural fit for Disney in the 1990s as the studio sought to tell stories from beyond European folklore. The idea took shape at Walt Disney Feature Animation in Florida, where filmmakers hoped to blend Chinese cultural traditions with Disney’s signature storytelling flair.

The production of “Mulan” was a labor of creativity and cultural research. Disney artists traveled to China in 1994, sketching landscapes, temples, and architecture to ground the film in authentic visuals. Among those shaping the look of the film was art director Ric Sluiter, who helped define its painterly style; drawing inspiration from Chinese watercolor and ink-wash techniques. This approach gave Mulan a unique visual identity that stood apart from Disney’s earlier Renaissance hits, using bold shapes, minimalistic backgrounds, and striking color palettes to emphasize emotion and scale. Combined with a sweeping score by Jerry Goldsmith and memorable songs like “Reflection,” the film aimed to honor the legend while appealing to global audiences.

When “Mulan” premiered in 1998, it earned praise for its strong heroine, lush visuals, and fresh storytelling approach. While some critics noted the challenges of balancing Disney comedy with epic legend, the film struck a chord with audiences; earning over $300 million worldwide and securing Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations. Characters like Mushu the dragon, voiced by Eddie Murphy, added humor that broadened its appeal, while Mulan herself stood out as one of Disney’s most empowering leads. The film also resonated deeply with many viewers who saw in “Mulan” a role model of courage, independence, and love of family.

Over two decades later, “Mulan” remains a cornerstone of Disney’s legacy. It inspired a 2004 sequel, a live-action remake in 2020, and continues to influence discussions about representation in animation. The film’s artistry has also left a mark: Ric Sluiter and the animation team’s commitment to stylized design is still studied as a breakthrough in visual storytelling. Fun fact: in 1999, Disney partnered with the Chinese government to release “Mulan” in China, making it one of the first Disney animated films to debut there. Today, “Mulan” is remembered not just as a box office success, but as a cultural bridge; a film that brought an ancient legend to modern screens with heart, humor, and unforgettable artistry.

Bonus Questions:

Giancarlo: What was it like working on “Mulan”?

Ric: Working on Mulan was a life changing experience. We went to China for 3 weeks and traveled all over the country doing research. It was very hard work and the film took 5 years to make. I worked with incredibly talented artists on that film.

Barry: It was a great experience. My involvement took a total of five years to complete. We worked with a lot of very talented artists, actors, and musicians.

Jack: It was a lot of fun- A fun story and great people.

Miriam: I hated Florida!

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is this best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Ric: The best advice I received was a quote from Conan O’Brien:

“Work hard, be nice, and good things will happen to you!”

Barry: Never wait for permission to be or do what you dream of.

At age 10, I wanted to be a movie director so- I made my first movie, and I was a director.

Jack: Always tell the truth, on-stage and off.

Miriam: Seize the pay.

Thank you for reading! Have an amazing day and we will catch you again soon!

-Giancarlo