Actress Ming-Na Wen has shared a series of stunning behind-the-scenes photos about her cameo in Mulan. The live-action Mulan adaptation premiered this past weekend on Disney+. Although the film has been criticized for its whitewashed writing and directing crew, and controversy surrounding comments made by actress Liu Yifei, Mulan still pulled in $33.5 million in its opening weekend.
One particularly touching Easter egg for fans was the brief appearance of Ming-Na Wen, who provided the voice for Mulan in the original 1998 animated film. She made a quick appearance at the end of the live-action movie, where she presented Mulan to the Emperor following villain Bori Khan's defeat. Wen is seen walking down the gilded hall in the Emperor's throne room, before stopping in front of the man himself and announcing, "Your Imperial Highness, Hua Mulan." She's credited at the end as "Esteemed Guest."
Now, Ming-Na Wen has shared multiple photos on Instagram giving viewers a closer look at her appearance. The shared set of pictures provides close-ups of Wen's elaborate costume; Wen explains in her caption that she not only mimicked Mulan's walking style from the animated matchmaking scene, but the colors on the inside of her live-action costume were a nod to the hues of Mulan's dress during that particular scene as well. Several more shots show the incredible intricacy of the costume, including a gorgeous peacock that appears to be embroidered onto the chest. You can check out Ming-Na Wen's stunning pictures below:
Wen also praises Bina Daigeler, Mulan's costume designer. In particular, Wen highlights Daigeler's "attention to details" in the caption, which is clearly a nod to the beautiful stitching throughout the costume. Wen adds that Daigeler should be up for an Oscar for her breathtaking work throughout the film. Certainly, it's evident that Daigeler's work is nothing short of mesmerizing; from the flowers embroidered on the waist to peacock on the costume's train, Wen is right in affirming that Daigeler deserves the highest possible praise.
While Wen has been incredibly busy since her Mulan days - from her work on the popular Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. show to her supporting role on The Mandalorian - her voice work in the 1998 film helped breathe life into the character. Although Wen may have passed the torch of Mulan onto a different actress, she'll always have a place within the franchise. As such, if Mulan does get a sequel, here's to hoping that Wen makes another appearance.
Source: Ming-Na Wen/Instagram
