Why Mushu Won’t Be in the New Mulan Live Action Remake

Another movie that getting a modern live action remake is the Disney classic 'Mulan', but fans are wondering why Mushu won't be in it! If you remember, Mushu was the family dragon (voiced by Eddie Murphy) sent to help Mulan on her quest. With today's level of special and visual effects, a dragon-like character would be easy to recreate, but would it fit with the new direction this Live Action version is taking?

In an interview with Digital Spy, director Niki Caro acknowledged:

"I think we can all appreciate that Mushu is irreplaceable. You know, the animated classic stands on its own in that regard. In this movie, there is a creature representative–a spiritual representation of the ancestors, and most particularly of Mulan’s relationship with her father. But an update of Mushu? No..."

Mushu was the comic relief of the film, almost like 'Donkey' from 'Shrek', and gave the film a campiness in an otherwise intense animated movie based on Chinese folklore. This new Live Action version is taking a more serious and reverent approach to telling the tale. I kinda has a "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" feel to it. Donny Yen is also in this one.

Check out the official trailer:

The remake is reported to have easter eggs throughout the movie, giving tribute to the original animated version, and even has scenes that are direct re-creations. Let's just hope this remake isn't as big of a let down as live action Lion King.