During an interview with Collider on the set of Mulan, producer Jason Reed had high praise for the Mulan actress, citing her extraordinary athletic talent as one of the key factors to the action scenes working well. The producer was also asked about the varying martial arts forms that were peppered into the film and how they were utilised from performer to performer. Here’s what he said:
It’s excellent that they incorporated distinct martial arts styles into the film as it adds flavour to the action. Chinese martial arts are all so rich and diverse that it would be a mistake to only use one form in such a high profile film. Imagine if everyone was a student of Wing Chun, then we’ll just see Donnie Yen beat their butts down at the climax because that’s what he does in every Ip Man movie. Jokes aside, Mulan is setting out for a really great start despite the coronavirus concerns. The live-action remake is projected to collect some $85 million (USD) on its opening weekend despite the lack of the China factor in play as of now. Indeed, having a cast with a martial arts resume could only benefit the film. I mean, they’ve got Jet Li, Gong Li, and friggin Ip Man himself, Donnie Yen. So, I really look forward to seeing Liu Yifei and co. kick some a** and bring in the cash. Catch Disney’s Mulan in theatres this 26th March.