We may have some disappointing news for those anticipating the release of Mulan, as Disney has announced today that the live-action adaptation of the beloved animated classic will no longer be hitting theatres on the 25th of July, as initially intended, due to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic.
Deadline reports that the Mulan live-action adaptation is now expected to release in theatres on Friday the 21st of August, and not on the Holidays as it was initially rumoured — which is still some uplifting news, all things considered.
The official statement issued by Walt Disney Co-Chairman and Chief Creative Officer Alan Horn, and Co-Chairman Alan Berg reads as follows:
"While the pandemic has changed our release plans for Mulan and we will continue to be flexible as conditions require, it has not changed our belief in the power of this film and its message of hope and perseverance. Director Niki Caro and our cast and crew have created a beautiful, epic, and moving film that is everything the cinematic experience should be, and that’s where we believe it belongs – on the world stage and the big screen for audiences around the globe to enjoy together."
Mulan was initially expected to release in theatres in March of this year, but Disney had to push back the date to the 25th of July for the same reason the studio has decided to delay its release now. As a matter of fact, as long as the pandemic hasn't been controlled, it is likely that this new release date for the movie is only provisionary.
Disney has not revealed whether releasing Mulan on their streaming service is an option — or any other movies scheduled to hit theatres this year, for that matter — but at this point it wouldn't be surprising to find out that they have considered it. We'll just have to patiently wait for more official announcements; until new information is released, however, Mulan is still expected to release in August.
When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential.
Mulan is expected to release in theatres on Friday the 21st of August.