"Reflection" is a popular song from the Disney animated film "Mulan." Here are some interesting facts about the song and its connection to the movie:
Songwriters: "Reflection" was written by Matthew Wilder and David Zippel. Wilder also co-produced the song with Jerry Goldsmith, who composed the film's score. The songwriting duo aimed to capture the emotional journey of Mulan as she grapples with her identity and societal expectations.
Multiple Versions: The song has been recorded in several languages for different international releases of the film. This includes Mandarin Chinese, where it was performed by Coco Lee for the movie's Chinese release. Each version aimed to maintain the emotional depth and resonance of the original English version.
Lea Salonga's Performance: In the original English version, Lea Salonga provided the singing voice for Mulan. She is well-known for her vocal talents in various Disney films, having also sung for Princess Jasmine in "Aladdin." Her rendition of "Reflection" received critical acclaim and helped the song become an iconic Disney ballad.
Relevance to the Plot: "Reflection" is a pivotal song in the movie, as it represents Mulan's inner struggle and her desire to be true to herself. The lyrics reflect her yearning for acceptance and the courage to show her true identity. The song underscores the film's themes of identity, honor, and self-discovery.
Live-Action Adaptation: In Disney's live-action adaptation of "Mulan" released in 2020, the song "Reflection" was also featured. Chinese-American actress Liu Yifei, who portrayed Mulan in the live-action film, performed the song. The live-action version of "Reflection" incorporated both English and Mandarin versions of the song.
Legacy: "Reflection" remains one of Disney's most beloved and enduring songs. Its themes of self-acceptance and empowerment have resonated with audiences of all ages. The song has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be a favorite for Disney fans.
Award Nominations: "Reflection" received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song in 1999. While it didn't win, its nomination solidified its status as a significant and memorable Disney song.
"Reflection" is not only a beautiful piece of music but also a powerful moment in the film that captures Mulan's journey of self-discovery and determination.