To defend the country against invaders from the north, the Chinese emperor issues a decree ordering the recruitment of one man from each family to the army. Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of a successful warrior, decides to secretly go to war instead of her ailing father. Hua disguised as a man at every step is subjected to tests requiring her to mobilize internal strength and use its full potential. As a result of this great adventure, the girl becomes a steadfast fighter and wins the respect of a grateful nation and ... a proud father.