The Mulan and Shang Kiss: A Moment That Almost Was

10 Jul 2024

Remember that childhood thrill of watching Mulan, disguised as a man, bravely conquer challenges alongside her fellow soldiers? And that slow-burn tension with her commanding officer, Shang, who unknowingly fell for her strength and wit? The culmination of their story, many hoped, would be a satisfying romantic resolution. But instead of a passionate kiss confirming their feelings, we were left with a subtle gesture: a gentle fanning of Mulan’s face as Shang departs her home.

This "almost kiss" has sparked years of discussion and debate amongst fans. Why didn’t Disney give us the fairy tale ending we expected? Was it a missed opportunity, or a powerful statement in its own right? Let's delve into the cultural context, the history of the Mulan narrative, and explore why this particular moment continues to resonate with audiences even after all these years.

The story of Mulan is not a new one. Its roots trace back to ancient Chinese folklore, with the earliest known version appearing in the Ballad of Mulan, a poem dating back to the 5th or 6th century. Over the centuries, the tale has been adapted and retold in various forms, from plays to operas, each iteration adding its own interpretation to the story.

Interestingly, romance was not a central theme in the original versions of Mulan’s story. Her focus remained on fulfilling her filial duty, demonstrating her bravery, and ultimately saving her country. The introduction of a romantic interest, Captain Li Shang, was a creative decision made for Disney's 1998 animated film. This decision, while adding a layer of complexity to Mulan’s character and the overall narrative, also invited a Westernized expectation of a romantic resolution – hence, the anticipation for the kiss that never quite happened.

The decision to omit a kiss between Mulan and Shang was likely multifaceted. Some argue that it subtly acknowledges the cultural context of the original ballad, where romantic love was not the primary focus. Others suggest that it speaks to the evolving understanding of female characters in children’s films, where their worth isn’t solely defined by romantic relationships. Mulan’s story, even without the kiss, delivers a powerful message about courage, determination, and self-discovery. Her journey resonates with audiences, particularly young girls, who see in her a heroine who defies expectations and breaks down barriers.

The absence of a kiss between Mulan and Shang, rather than being a disappointment, has spurred interesting discussions about representation, cultural differences, and the evolution of storytelling in animation. It serves as a reminder that sometimes the most powerful narratives leave space for interpretation, prompting us to look beyond the expected and find meaning in the unspoken.

While we may never know the definitive reason behind the creative choice, one thing is certain: the story of Mulan, with or without a kiss, continues to inspire and empower audiences worldwide. It reminds us that heroism comes in many forms, and sometimes, the most fulfilling stories are the ones that defy expectations and challenge conventions.