10 Actors Who Refused To Use Stunt Doubles For Epic Fight Scenes

Liu Yifei is a well-known actress in China, having started acting in 2003 and most notably appearing in The Forbidden Kingdom (2008). Over the years, her versatility has been evident to the watchful eye. The live-action remake of Mulan (2020), however, was her real breakout role on the world stage. Yoson An had been acting since 2013, with bit-part roles in The Meg and Mortal Engines (both 2018). However, a black belt in karate, as well as experience in kickboxing and powerlifting, ensured he had the necessary physicality for his role.

Mulan was Liu's first major role in an action film, so she prepared with a six-to-seven hour daily workout regimen; featuring activities such as cardio, archery, strength conditioning, sword training, and martial arts. This was to build up her energy levels for the impending fight scenes in the film. No wires were involved in these scenes, with stunt performers also deemed unnecessary.

Yoson trained for four months prior to the beginning of filming, eight hours a week. He was trained by Bojan Mladenovic, a former Serbian special forces officers, with the actor describing it as a ‘boot camp’.

Liu joined then him in camp after three months. The actor did similar training to Liu's, learning Chen-style tai chi during the period. They then trained together for the fight sequence seen in the movie, guaranteeing the harmonious scene the viewers eventually enjoyed. Here, Mulan (Liu) and Hongui (Yoson) spar with spears, brilliantly showcasing the weapons training and choreography they mastered before filming.