This is absolutely the best presentation of a well known story. The adaptation is very good, and the acting is first rate, especially that of Vicki Zhao(Mulan). The battle scenes are some of the best-staged in recent Chinese movies. In the equestrian scenes in particular, the horses run straight, their heads are not yanked around like a marlin trying to shake off its hook and the riders sit properly instead of bouncing around with their arms flapping like the wings of a bird trying to take off. The entire cast is to be congratulated and I highly recommend this movie to everyone who is interested in Chinese legends. Beware though, that although the English subtitle is reasonably accurate, there is no way to turn it off! This may be a distraction to some viewers.
Unfortunately, even though this title is listed as being "region-free" in terms of coding, it is not. Review of the specific title pictured is in fact coded for region-B specifically (which includes Europe, Africa but none of the Americas.) Further information confirms that no current (as of 06/22/2012) "region-free" version of this release exists.
The good news is, there is a region-A version of this release available for purchase from multiple online vendors (a quick google search will help there!) This is not meant to tarnish or demean the value of shopping with Amazon.com, it is merely stated for those who truly would like to own a version of this release they can watch on their region-A coded players. Additional information of this region-A version is that it is Chinese language with English subtitles, there is no English dubbing. The distiction between the two versions is in the unique cover art; The current displayed art is for the region-B version, and the region-A version shows the titular character on horseback with other lead characters and massive armies on the front cover.
So, if you already have a region-B player, then you are all set in terms of this title. As I stated this review is only to clarify that this is not a region-free version. I have heard there are "chips" or firmware that may be installed in blu ray players to allow them to play any region coded Blu ray (the ever popular google search can assist with that!), but that involves tampering with the player which usually voids the warranty (if applicable.) So, hopefully this is helpful to anyone wanting to own this blu ray release. A quick note on the actual film itself This is a more mature movie based on the Chinese folk tale, this is not the "Disney Mulan" you may have seen.I saw this movie shortly after it came out in Chinese only, so I do not know about the translation. However, the characters, plot and special effects are all wonderful. I liked the disney version, but I like this version much more. Definitely a must-see.
Read Best Reviews of Mulan Here
This is a very well done martial arts action movie based on the Mulan character. Had to watch right away and glad I did. I was skeptical about the "region free" designation and was so delighted that it played well on my system. Movie Mars offered a very good price and delivery was better than I expected.the story line was absolutely incredible the acting was top notch the movie scenery / cinemagraph was very well set "recommended"
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