38 Best Movies like Mulan (1998)

Whale Rider is included for the way it explores intergenerational expectations and the courage required to challenge longstanding family traditions. It stands out for its emotionally powerful portrayal of youth striving to prove themselves in a world that initially underestimates them.

A contemporary story of love, rejection, and triumph as a young Māori girl fights to fulfill a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognize. Whale Rider is a movie from New Zealand in English, with a total 1h 41m runtime, released in 2003 with an average rating of 7.0 by 451 people. The movie made an estimated total of $41,400,000 in the box office.

Brave makes the list because it delves into a young woman's determination to forge her own destiny, offering a fresh take on personal identity and familial duty. Its vibrant animation and adventurous spirit create a unique journey that is visually captivating and heartfelt.

In the mystical Scottish Highlands, Merida is the princess of a kingdom ruled by King Fergus and Queen Elinor. An unruly daughter and an accomplished archer, Merida one day defies a sacred custom of the land and inadvertently brings turmoil to the kingdom. In an attempt to set things right, Merida seeks out an eccentric old Wise Woman and is granted an ill-fated wish. Also figuring into Merida's quest — and serving as comic relief — are the kingdom's three lords: the enormous Lord MacGuffin, the surly Lord Macintosh, and the disagreeable Lord Dingwall. Brave is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 33m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 7.0 by 14,328 people. The movie made an estimated total of $538,983,207 in the box office.

Moana finds a place here due to its engaging story of a young protagonist risking everything to help her community and discover her true calling. The film delights with its stunning visuals, memorable music, and an uplifting message about self-discovery.

In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by Maui reaches an impetuous Chieftain's daughter's island, she answers the Ocean's call to seek out the demigod to set things right. Moana is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.6 by 13,894 people. The movie made an estimated total of $690,860,472 in the box office.

Princess Mononoke earns its spot for its grand adventure grounded in moral complexities, offering a nuanced look at conflict and honor. The film is renowned for its visually rich world and its compelling blend of intensity and introspection.

Ashitaka, a prince of the disappearing Emishi people, is cursed by a demonized boar god and must journey to the west to find a cure. Along the way, he encounters San, a young human woman fighting to protect the forest, and Lady Eboshi, who is trying to destroy it. Ashitaka must find a way to bring balance to this conflict. Princess Mononoke is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 14m runtime, released in 1997 with an average rating of 8.3 by 9,151 people. The movie made an estimated total of $176,506,186 in the box office.

A Knight's Tale is recognized for its tale of defying rigid societal roles and striving for acceptance, much like the spirit of Mulan. The film is memorable for its energetic storytelling style, engaging characters, and an entertaining blend of humor and action.

William Thatcher, a knight's peasant apprentice, gets a chance at glory when the knight dies suddenly mid-tournament. Posing as a knight himself, William won't stop until he's crowned tournament champion—assuming matters of the heart don't get in the way. A Knight's Tale is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 13m runtime, released in 2001 with an average rating of 6.9 by 3,441 people. The movie made an estimated total of $117,487,473 in the box office.

The Eagle Huntress takes its place for exploring how breaking barriers can inspire both personal and cultural transformation. This documentary captivates with breathtaking landscapes and an uplifting real-life story of determination.

Follow Aisholpan, a 13-year-old girl, as she trains to become the first female in twelve generations of her Kazakh family to become an eagle hunter, and rise to the pinnacle of a tradition that has been typically been handed down from father to son for centuries. The Eagle Huntress is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 27m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.0 by 107 people. The movie made an estimated total of $3,162,153 in the box office.

The Hidden Blade appears on the list for its focus on courage amid strict codes and personal sacrifice, situating characters within a richly depicted period setting. Its understated storytelling and nuanced drama create a lasting impression.

Set in 19th Century Japan a young samurai who finds himself in love with a farm girl leaves his home to begin a new life. He has to take stock of his new life when he is put to the test and ordered to kill a traitor who just happens to be his dearest friend. The Hidden Blade is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 12m runtime, released in 2004 with an average rating of 7.4 by 128 people.

The Secret of Kells earns recommendation for the imaginative adventure experienced by a young hero facing great odds. The film distinguishes itself with striking animation and a creative use of folklore, offering a visually distinct and magical experience.

Adventure awaits 12 year old Brendan who must fight Vikings and a serpent god to find a crystal and complete the legendary Book of Kells. In order to finish Brother Aiden's book, Brendan must overcome his deepest fears on a secret quest that will take him beyond the abbey walls and into the enchanted forest where dangerous mythical creatures hide. Will Brendan succeed in his quest? The Secret of Kells is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 19m runtime, released in 2009 with an average rating of 7.4 by 800 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,803,412 in the box office.

The Breadwinner stands out for its bold portrayal of a girl's resolve to protect her family in a perilous environment. Its moving narrative and expressive animation provide a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic journey.

A headstrong young girl in Afghanistan, ruled by the Taliban, disguises herself as a boy in order to provide for her family. The Breadwinner is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 7.9 by 938 people. The movie made an estimated total of $2,790,214 in the box office.

Hero is featured because it immerses viewers in a sweeping historical tapestry marked by loyalty, sacrifice, and extraordinary feats. Visually stunning and rich with symbolism, it offers a mesmerizing experience rooted in legendary heroism.

During China's Warring States period, a district prefect arrives at the palace of Qin Shi Huang, claiming to have killed the three assassins who had made an attempt on the king's life three years ago. Hero is a movie from China in Mandarin, with a total 1h 39m runtime, released in 2002 with an average rating of 7.5 by 2,552 people. The movie made an estimated total of $177,394,432 in the box office.

The Last Warrior belongs on this list for its adventure-driven story where bold action and destiny are central. The film enchants with its inventive world-building and imaginative incorporation of folklore elements.

Ivan is an ordinary guy who is transferred from modern Moscow to the fantasy world Belogorye. In this parallel universe where characters of Russian fairy tales live, magic is an integral part of daily life, and arguments are settled with the help of sword . Unexpectedly, Ivan finds himself in the middle of a battle between good and evil, and he must discover why everyone thinks that he must play the main role in upcoming events... The Last Warrior is a movie from Russia in Russian, with a total 2h 0m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 6.9 by 214 people. The movie made an estimated total of $30,060,061 in the box office.

Onward earns its place through its heartfelt tale of siblings embarking on a transformative quest, driven by love and loyalty. The movie charms with inventive fantasy elements and a comedic warmth woven through the story.

In a suburban fantasy world, two teenage elf brothers embark on an extraordinary quest to discover if there is still a little magic left out there. Onward is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 7.6 by 6,649 people. The movie made an estimated total of $141,888,276 in the box office.

Kiki's Delivery Service is included for its coming-of-age journey, as a young character seeks to define her place in the world. Its gentle tone, engaging animation, and themes of resilience give it enduring appeal.

A young witch, on her mandatory year of independent life, finds fitting into a new community difficult while she supports herself by running an air courier service. Kiki's Delivery Service is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 1h 43m runtime, released in 1989 with an average rating of 7.8 by 4,654 people. The movie made an estimated total of $4,493,017 in the box office.

The Tale of The Princess Kaguya is recommended for its enchanting reimagining of classic folklore through a deeply emotional character arc. The film’s unique animation style and delicate storytelling create a poignant and unforgettable experience.

Found inside a shining stalk of bamboo by an old bamboo cutter and his wife, a tiny girl grows rapidly into an exquisite young lady. The mysterious young princess enthrals all who encounter her. But, ultimately, she must confront her fate. The Tale of The Princess Kaguya is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 17m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 8.1 by 2,020 people. The movie made an estimated total of $24,366,656 in the box office.

A Letter to Momo is chosen for depicting a young protagonist navigating family, change, and inner conflict. The film stands out for its heartfelt exploration of loss and reconciliation, wrapped in a blend of realism and subtle fantasy.

A shy 11-year-old's life takes a strange turn when she discovers three hungry goblins living in the attic of her new house. She misses her old life. She misses her father so very much. Until she makes some new ghoulish friends. A Letter to Momo is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 0m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 7.3 by 409 people. The movie made an estimated total of $6,748,888 in the box office.

Wolfwalkers is recognized for its imaginative use of myth and adventure as a young character uncovers hidden truths and faces transformation. The striking hand-drawn animation and inventive narrative make it a visually and emotionally rich film.

In a time of superstition and magic, when wolves are seen as demonic and nature an evil to be tamed, a young apprentice hunter comes to Ireland with her father to wipe out the last pack. But when she saves a wild native girl, their friendship leads her to discover the world of the Wolfwalkers and transform her into the very thing her father is tasked to destroy. Wolfwalkers is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 8.2 by 1,424 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,310,720 in the box office.

The Swordsman lands here for its exploration of loyalty and personal sacrifice against a sweeping historical backdrop. Its action-driven plot and evocative atmosphere make for an engaging and intense viewing experience.

After being blinded in a coup against the king, Joseon's greatest swordsman goes into hiding, far removed from his city's anguish. But when traffickers kidnap his daughter, he has no choice but to unsheathe his sword once more. The Swordsman is a movie from South Korea in Korean, with a total 1h 41m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 7.5 by 290 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,516,150 in the box office.

Anastasia is included thanks to its story of a young woman on a perilous and transformative journey to reclaim her identity. The film dazzles with vibrant animation, memorable songs, and a sense of adventure and discovery.

Ten years after she was separated from her family, an eighteen-year-old orphan with vague memories of the past sets out to Paris in hopes of reuniting with her grandmother. She is accompanied by two con men, who intend to pass her off as the Grand Duchess Anastasia to the Dowager Empress for a reward. Anastasia is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 1997 with an average rating of 7.6 by 5,660 people. The movie made an estimated total of $139,804,348 in the box office.

Queen of Katwe stands out by focusing on overcoming adversity and personal limitations, offering a truly inspiring journey rooted in real-life struggle. Its authentic performances and uplifting tone make it both compelling and rewarding.

A young girl overcomes her disadvantaged upbringing in the slums of Uganda to become a Chess master. Queen of Katwe is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 4m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.2 by 474 people. The movie made an estimated total of $10,367,161 in the box office.

Song of the Sea is featured for its enchanting quest led by a resilient young protagonist in a magical world. The film leaves a lasting impact with its lyrical storytelling and mesmerizing hand-drawn visual style.

The story of the last Seal Child’s journey home. After their mother’s disappearance, Ben and Saoirse are sent to live with Granny in the city. When they resolve to return to their home by the sea, their journey becomes a race against time as they are drawn into a world Ben knows only from his mother’s folktales. But this is no bedtime story; these fairy folk have been in our world far too long. It soon becomes clear to Ben that Saoirse is the key to their survival. Song of the Sea is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2014 with an average rating of 8.0 by 1,604 people. The movie made an estimated total of $857,522 in the box office.

Children of Heaven is recognized for its moving depiction of familial bonds and quiet determination in the face of hardship. Its gentle storytelling and emotional resonance make it a universally appealing slice-of-life tale.

Zohre's shoes are gone; her older brother Ali lost them. They are poor, there are no shoes for Zohre until they come up with an idea: they will share one pair of shoes. School awaits. Children of Heaven is a movie from Iran in Persian, with a total 1h 28m runtime, released in 1997 with an average rating of 7.9 by 733 people. The movie made an estimated total of $925,402 in the box office.

Erin Brockovich earns a place for its tale of perseverance through daunting obstacles, as a determined character strives for justice against powerful adversaries. The film’s strong lead performance and suspenseful unfolding drama make it impactful.

A twice-divorced mother of three who sees an injustice, takes on the bad guy and wins -- with a little help from her push-up bra. Erin goes to work for an attorney and comes across medical records describing illnesses clustered in one nearby town. She starts investigating and soon exposes a monumental cover-up. Erin Brockovich is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 11m runtime, released in 2000 with an average rating of 7.4 by 3,700 people. The movie made an estimated total of $256,271,286 in the box office.

Pocahontas is included as it tells the story of a courageous woman navigating cultural differences and personal conviction amid historical conflict. Its memorable animation and powerful songs highlight a journey of understanding and bravery.

Pocahontas, daughter of a Native American tribe chief, falls in love with an English soldier as colonists invade 17th century Virginia. Pocahontas is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 21m runtime, released in 1995 with an average rating of 6.9 by 6,137 people. The movie made an estimated total of $346,079,773 in the box office.

Quo Vadis, Aida? is featured for its gripping narrative centered on a determined protagonist fighting against insurmountable odds. The tension and emotional intensity provide a sobering, immersive perspective on resilience.

Bosnia, July 1995. Aida is a translator for the UN in the small town of Srebrenica. When the Serbian army takes over the town, her family is among the thousands of citizens looking for shelter in the UN camp. As an insider to the negotiations Aida has access to crucial information that she needs to interpret. What is at the horizon for her family and people – rescue or death? Which move should she take? Quo Vadis, Aida? is a movie from Bosnia and Herzegovina in Serbian, with a total 1h 44m runtime, released in 2021 with an average rating of 7.7 by 481 people. The movie made an estimated total of $813,253 in the box office.

Epic is listed here for propelling a young character into a fantastical world where the fate of an entire realm hangs in the balance. Its fast-paced action and imaginative setting offer plenty of visual excitement.

A teenager finds herself transported to a deep forest setting where a battle between the forces of good and the forces of evil is taking place. She bands together with a rag-tag group characters in order to save their world—and ours. Epic is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 6.6 by 2,979 people. The movie made an estimated total of $268,426,634 in the box office.

Frida is recognized for showcasing an individual's unwavering strength and unique perspective as she contends with personal and cultural upheaval. The movie stands out through vibrant visuals and a passionate portrayal of its central figure.

A biography of artist Frida Kahlo, who channeled the pain of a crippling injury and her tempestuous marriage into her work. Frida is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 3m runtime, released in 2002 with an average rating of 7.4 by 2,200 people. The movie made an estimated total of $56,298,474 in the box office.

The Woman King offers a compelling view of collective strength and personal valor within a historical setting fraught with danger and change. Dynamic action sequences and stirring performances highlight its grand scale and emotional impact.

The story of the Agojie, the all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s with skills and a fierceness unlike anything the world has ever seen, and General Nanisca as she trains the next generation of recruits and readies them for battle against an enemy determined to destroy their way of life. The Woman King is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 15m runtime, released in 2022 with an average rating of 7.6 by 2,403 people. The movie made an estimated total of $97,562,514 in the box office.

The King of Masks is included for its exploration of tradition, identity, and emotional connection across generations. Its heartfelt narrative and nuanced characters make it a powerful and evocative portrait of human resilience.

Wang Bianlian is an aging street performer known as the King of Mask for his mastery of Sichuan Change Art in a true story. His wife left him with and infant son over 30 years ago. The son died from illness at age 10. This left Wang a melancholy loner aching for a male descendent to learn his rare and dying art. The King of Masks is a movie from China in Mandarin, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 1995 with an average rating of 7.4 by 64 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1 in the box office.

True Grit takes its spot for the determined journey of a headstrong young protagonist seeking justice. The film is memorable for its sharp dialogue, rich atmosphere, and compelling performances.

Following the murder of her father by a hired hand, a 14-year-old farm girl sets out to capture the killer. To aid her, she hires the toughest U.S. Marshal she can find—a man with 'true grit'—Reuben J. 'Rooster' Cogburn. True Grit is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 50m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 7.3 by 5,839 people. The movie made an estimated total of $252,300,000 in the box office.

The Color of Paradise is featured for its moving portrayal of perseverance and self-discovery in the face of life’s challenges. The film resonates through its delicate storytelling and deeply human themes.

Mohammad joyfully returns to his tiny village on summer vacation from the Institute for the Blind, unaware of his widowed father's intentions to disown him in order to win the hand—and dowry—of a local woman. With the wedding swiftly approaching, Mohammad's future hangs precariously in the balance as his father struggles against his destiny, unable to see the wonder of life and love that's so clear to his son. The Color of Paradise is a movie from Iran in Persian, with a total 1h 28m runtime, released in 1999 with an average rating of 7.6 by 186 people.

The Red Turtle is chosen for its wordless storytelling and poetic exploration of human resilience on a journey of survival and adaptation. Its breathtaking animation and meditative pacing offer a tranquil yet profound experience.

The dialogue-less film follows the major life stages of a castaway on a deserted tropical island populated by turtles, crabs and birds. The Red Turtle is a movie from Belgium in French, with a total 1h 21m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.4 by 1,388 people. The movie made an estimated total of $921,974 in the box office.

Persepolis is included for its insightful story of growing up amid turmoil, as told through striking animation and a personal lens. The film is celebrated for its emotional honesty and distinctive graphic style.

In 1970s Iran, Marjane 'Marji' Satrapi watches events through her young eyes and her idealistic family of a long dream being fulfilled of the hated Shah's defeat in the Iranian Revolution of 1979. However as Marji grows up, she witnesses first hand how the new Iran, now ruled by Islamic fundamentalists, has become a repressive tyranny on its own. Persepolis is a movie from France in French, with a total 1h 35m runtime, released in 2007 with an average rating of 7.9 by 2,209 people. The movie made an estimated total of $22,783,990 in the box office.

The Wind Rises earns recommendation for its portrayal of dreams pursued despite great adversity, inviting viewers into a beautifully rendered historical world. Its evocative animation and contemplative tone make it a standout work.

A lifelong love of flight inspires Japanese aviation engineer Jiro Horikoshi, whose storied career includes the creation of the A-6M World War II fighter plane. The Wind Rises is a movie from Japan in Japanese, with a total 2h 6m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 7.8 by 3,425 people. The movie made an estimated total of $117,932,401 in the box office.

The Painted Veil appears for its characters’ struggle with loyalty, love, and honor amid an evocative historical backdrop. The film's engaging storytelling and atmospheric visuals elevate its dramatic appeal.

A British medical doctor fights a cholera outbreak in a small Chinese village, while also being trapped at home in a loveless marriage to an unfaithful wife. The Painted Veil is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 5m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 7.3 by 1,290 people. The movie made an estimated total of $26,910,847 in the box office.

Salt makes the list due to its high-stakes narrative following a protagonist navigating danger and deception with wit and resourcefulness. Its fast-paced action and suspenseful plotting provide relentless thrills.

As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt swore an oath to duty, honor, and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a Russian defector accuses her of being a Russian sleeper spy. She goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture, protect her husband, and stay one step ahead of her colleagues at the CIA. Her efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: "Who is Salt?" Salt is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 40m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 6.4 by 6,005 people. The movie made an estimated total of $293,329,073 in the box office.

North Country is recommended for its story of standing up against deep-seated injustice through quiet determination. The film is engaging both for its dramatic tension and for the humanity at its core.

A fictionalized account of the first major successful sexual harassment case in the United States — Jenson vs. Eveleth Mines, where a woman who endured a range of abuse while working as a miner filed and won the landmark 1984 lawsuit. North Country is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 6m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 7.3 by 752 people. The movie made an estimated total of $25,224,242 in the box office.

The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc is included for its depiction of a young woman fearlessly thrust into conflict and compelled by duty; a narrative strongly reminiscent of Mulan. Its grand scale and complex portrait of heroism set it apart.

In 1429, a French teenager stood before her King with a message she claimed came from God; that she would defeat the world's greatest army and liberate her country from its political and religious turmoil. As she reclaims God's diminished kingdom, this courageous young woman has various amazing victories until her violent and untimely death. The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc is a movie from France in English, with a total 2h 38m runtime, released in 1999 with an average rating of 6.4 by 1,625 people. The movie made an estimated total of $66,976,317 in the box office.

Memoirs of a Geisha is chosen for transporting viewers to a richly detailed historical setting where a woman's journey is marked by sacrifice and hope. The film distinguishes itself through its lush visuals and evocative storytelling.

In the years before World War II, a penniless Japanese child is torn from her family to work as a maid in a geisha house. Memoirs of a Geisha is a movie from Japan in English, with a total 2h 26m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 7.6 by 3,425 people. The movie made an estimated total of $162,242,962 in the box office.