this is my very first sketch for the title of disney’s MULAN. the idea was that an invisible brush draws in black bleeding ink some recognizable icons for china, like typical tree-shapes, curly clouds and ending with the chinese wall. I wanted the designs very simple, thick brushstrokes. and inbetween the curvy path the title lettering was supposed to show, in red. so only 3 colors together, the ivory background with black and red.
© disney enterprises, inc



Its perhaps one of the most beautiful maintitle sequence i ever saw in a Disney picture.The musical theme with the choir is very well chosen too and fits wonderfully to the brush movement.
This film ran on tv again this weekend. And of course, I was hooked into it, again, watching it. This is absolutely one of the most beautiful films done at Disney, and your work is just nothing short of brilliant, Hans. I love seeing such sketches as the main title you’ve posted and would appreciate any other small bits you’d like to share.
Yes, I remember when I saw it at cinema with the music… and I thought that Disney still kept its wonder sense.
I love this! I remember watching Mulan for the first time in my parent’s bedroom, back when I lived in Manila, receiving it as a gift on videotape when I was 7 years old. It’s forever been one of my favourite Disney films, and I’ve always adored the title sequence with the effortless brushstrokes, really evoking the traditional Chinese culture. It is one of my favourite parts of the movie. Thank you for making a film I love so beautiful! – Jacqueline