20 reasons we still love the magic of Mulan 20 years later

2. Mulan saves China

Everyone, including Li Shang, worries about what will happen to her considering she has broken the law many times over. When the emperor speaks, he seems harsh.

But then, he surprises  everyone. The emperor says: “I have heard a great deal about you, Fa Mulan. You stole your father’s armor, an away from home. impersonated a soldier, deceived your commanding officer, dishonored the Chinese army, destroyed my palace… and you have saved us all.”

He then bows to Mulan and in turn, so does everyone else. He offers her a job that she declines, saying she wants to go home. The emperor then gives her the sword of Shan Yu and his crest. As he gives them to her he says: “Take this so your family will know what you have done for me. And this so the world will know what you have done for china.” Mulan feels overwhelmed that she receives this honor and hugs the emperor.

This scene is such a powerful moment in Mulan. She had done it; she saved all of China and won the emperor’s and everyone else’s respect. After watching that, what young girl wouldn’t feel inspired to take the lead as Mulan did?