I'm uncertain if Mulan was a real-life character too but her stories was recorded in literature/folksongs which is called "Ballad of Mulan". I made a mental note to discuss about this with my dad when I visit him next trip home. He was a Chinese literature teacher many years ago. :)

The movie stirred up controversy due to the filming location in Xinjiang, where human right abuse happened against the Uighur minority. The ending credits thanked the government agency which is accused of this issue.

Besides, in this remake, the characters, plot and the whole idea dishonoured the character of Mulan, as well as the Chinese culture. I can't validate this point but based on my friends who watched it, the movie was truly disappointing and they still love the animated version of Mulan.