In an ancient Chinese village, the young, spirited Mulan is distraught over her failure to impress the local matchmaker and bring honour to her family. But when her beloved father, weakened by a previous injury, is called off to defend China from the invading Huns, Mulan risks making a break with tradition to save his life. She disguises herself as a man and takes his place in the Chinese army. As Mulan struggles to keep her secret, she teaches as much as she learns about life's true values.