Orientalism and Representations of Hua Mulan: A Comparative Analysis of the 2020 Film Adaptations

Abstract

This article examines the portrayal of Hua Mulan in the 2020 film adaptations produced in the USA and China through the lens of Edward Said’s Orientalism, assessing the cultural and political implications of these representations. The study begins with a historical overview of Hua Mulan’s adaptations, focusing on how the 2020 films reflect cultural stereotypes, gender dynamics, and the tension between individualistic and collective values. By comparing these productions, it highlights the perpetuation of Western stereotypes about Asian cultures and contrasts them with China’s narrative strategies. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of analyzing cultural representations in cinema as a tool for understanding broader political and social dynamics. It argues that Said’s framework remains relevant for examining how the “Other” is depicted in contemporary films, and proposes new insights into the political power of cinema in shaping public perceptions. This discussion contributes to the existing debates on Orientalism, offering a nuanced critique of cultural representation and its role in reinforcing or challenging stereotypes.