Disney has announced that fans of the feisty and heroic character "Mulan" would have to wait until Mar. 27, 2020 for the premiere of the live-action version on the big screen. Originally slated for a 2018 release date, the movie experienced delays due to the length of time it took to cast the lead role, amid clamor for the studio to avoid "whitewashing" the role meant for an Asian actress. Disney has been aware that it would not meet its initial target date.
Fans were delighted when the news broke in November 2017 that the search was over as Disney has found its "Mulan" in Chinese actress Liu Yifei, also known as Crystal Liu. According to reports, the casting directors for the said film visited five continents in their search for an actress who could fit the following criteria: "credible martial arts skills, the ability to speak English," "star quality," and specifically, someone who is "ethnically Chinese."
They reportedly auditioned 1,000 actresses for the role before deciding on Liu, who is considered one of China's most bankable stars. She has also lived for a period of time in Queens, New York. Fondly called by the Chinese public as "fairy sister," the actress is known for her innocent image and good looks.
As for her filmography, Liu has been part of a "series of hit television dramas in the mid-2000s," as well as the film "Forbidden Kingdom" with Jackie Chan and Jet Li in 2008. Most recently, she appeared in "Outcast" with Nicolas Cage and Hayden Christensen back in 2014.
The live-action adaptation will be under the directing helm of Niki Caro, who created a buzz through "Whale Rider," a Maori family-oriented drama in 2002. She will be the second female director to take charge of a big-budget Disney production, coming after "A Wrinkle in Time" director Ava DuVernay.
There is still no final word as to whether "Mulan" will also be a musical but, just in case, Liu's music videos are valid proof that she can sing.
