Why ‘Mulan’ Deserves A Proper Theatrical Release

Disney’s “Mulan” was expected to hit theaters on March 27. However, its release was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic that forced theaters to shut down. “Mulan” deserves a proper theatrical release, according to a source.

Slowly, the world is adjusting to the new normal and some theaters are already resuming their business operations. However, the lockdown has somehow affected the fate of some movies. For instance, Tom Hanks’ drama “Greyhound,” which was set for a Father’s Day theatrical release, changed its course. The producers decided to skip the movie theaters and debut it on Apple TV+ instead. And now there are rumors that “Mulan” may go straight to VOD.

Kayleigh Donaldson, an entertainment critic, and writer for Screen Rant, recently voiced out her thoughts on the live-action movie. She urged Disney to give “Mulan” a proper theatrical release. According to her, the adaptation deserves “proper theatrical distribution.”

Disney spent $200 million for the movie and it marketed the film twice worldwide over the course of a year. Donaldon said it will only be a waste of money if the film were to go straight to Disney+.

“It’s important for Disney to give ‘Mulan’ the treatment it deserves not only because of their financial investment but because the film carries the weight of cultural and historical importance for the company,” Donaldson wrote.

“Mulan” is also very promising and shows a major step forward when it comes to inclusivity. Disney listened to the fans when they said they don’t want a “white” Mulan by having an all-Asian cast.

Several of Disney’s live-action films did not impress fans because they appeared carbon copies of the original stories, with little details to make them different from their animated versions. “Mulan” is different because it is not a musical and the major characters have been changed. It also introduces a new villain.

“This film is many things but it’s also a signal that the company is keen to throw their own hat into the ring of the now-dominant blockbuster market rather than leaving such projects to their endless array of acquisitions. That’s something that needs and deserves a big screen with big audiences in tow,” Donaldson added.

According to a previous report, Walt Disney Co. is planning to release “Mulan” on July 24. However, the release date is yet to be finalized. So, fans are hoping for a concrete update from Disney.