Who's News
February 6, 2005
Meet Ming-Na, Voice of Mulan
TFK Kid Reporter Melanie gets the details on the recording of Mulan II
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The legend of Mulan continues in the newly released Disney DVD Mulan II. This funny, romantic, and action-packed movie hit the stores on February 1. Mulan and Shang are engaged to be married, Mushu continues to be entertainingly mischievous, and the fate of China is at risk once again. I recently had the opportunity to speak with Ming-Na, the voice behind the spirited Mulan.
TFK: What first attracted you to the character of Mulan?
Ming-Na: Well, it is a legendary character from China and I grew up with it. My mother used to tell me the story so it had a special meaning to me as a child. Also because it was a Disney film.
 |  The cast of Mulan II: the Gang Of Three, Mulan, Captain Li Shang, and the Princesses (Mei, Ting-Ting and Su.) |
Ming-Na: I think she is a very good role model for girls and boys. She is a strong individual who believes in herself and follows her heart. She is loyal to her friends and is great with her parents.
TFK: What can kids expect in Mulan II? How does it compare with Mulan?
Ming-Na: Mulan II takes place pretty soon after Mulan I ends and it is a continuing story of a budding romance between Mulan and Shang and how Mulan deals with having a man in her life. She has three princesses she is trying to protect and escort. In Mulan II, Mulan becomes an advisor, which is different than in Mulan II when she was learning who she was. In Mulan II she became a teacher.
TFK: Which movie was more fun to make Mulan I or Mulan II and why?
Ming-Na: The first was really exciting because it was my first time doing a Disney movie and because we were creating the historic aspect of her character. It was easier to portray Mulan in the second film because I was familiar with her character.
TFK: When you were working on the voices for the fighting scenes were you actually doing physical stunts to make it sound like you were fighting while talking?
Ming-Na: I was definitely moving around and swinging a sword and when you get hit in a scene you scrunch in your stomach.
|  Mulan's parents present her and Shang with an engagement gift -- matching Yin and Yang necklaces. |
Ming-Na: I would have to say I am very independent and I follow my heart and do what I want to do. I love my family and I am close and loyal to my parents.
TFK: Do you have a real-life guardian dragon like Mushu?
Ming-Na: My mom is my guardian, she is always guiding me.
TFK: You have acted and done so much voice work. Do you have a favorite role you have played?
Ming-Na: Well, Mulan definitely, she has been the most fun.
TFK: Besides Mulan, do you have a favorite Disney movie?
Ming-Na: Lion King and Beauty and the Beast.
TFK: You have been called one of the country's most influential Asian Americans. How does it feel to be a role model to so many people?
Ming-Na: It is a little weird; I just sort of do what I want to do. Being a role model has a certain responsibility. I'm just thankful for what I do. Like Mulan does what she feels is right - that's the true message - to really believe in yourself.
TFK: Who is your role model?
Ming-Na: There have been so many. My mother, I love Oprah, Audrey Hepburn, strong women who have so many talents with a passion for life. Michelle Kwan, she is an incredible human being.
TFK: Do you feel there are enough good roles for Asian American actors?
Ming-Na: No, never.
