10 Best "I Want" Songs In Animated Films
3. Mulan - "Reflection"
Short but sweet, “Reflection” sees Mulan expressing a want to stay true to herself rather than pretend to be something she's not. However, she cannot do so if it means compromising her family's honour.
Starting off on a slow tempo, it gradually speeds up a little. The violin and piano complements Lea Salonga's serene vocals, building up with the rest of the instruments to reach its climax before slowing down again. It's a beautiful musical accompaniment, its Chinese inflections suiting the setting of the story as well as the scenery surrounding Mulan's home.
Through “Reflection”, the audience sees the difficulties in which Mulan as a woman living in Imperial China faces. Indeed, as the lyrics state, she would break her family's heart if she were to be herself, although her own happiness is also at stake if she had to honour their wishes.
This implication is made all the more striking by the lasting image of Mulan removing her make-up and gazing forlornly at her "true" reflection – regardless of who she chooses to be, she'll be hurting someone, and goodness knows that the audience doesn't want it to be her.