Is Chi Fu From Mulan Really the WORST Disney Villain?

26 Jul 2024

We’ve all gasped at the cruelty of Cruella de Vil, booed at the treachery of Scar, and shuddered at the wickedness of Ursula. But what about Chi Fu from Mulan? He might not possess magical powers or command an army of hyenas, yet this stern Imperial advisor has earned his place in the Disney villain hall of fame. Is it just us, or does Chi Fu spark a special kind of outrage?

Let’s rewind a bit. Mulan, Disney’s animated masterpiece, tells the story of a young woman who defies societal norms and disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the Imperial Army. Enter Chi Fu, a tightly-wound, by-the-book official assigned by the Emperor to ensure the army's success. Throughout Mulan’s journey, he serves as a constant thorn in her side, his rigid adherence to tradition clashing with Mulan’s courage and ingenuity.

While Chi Fu might not be conjuring storms or kidnapping princesses, his villainy stems from a different, and some might argue, even more insidious place: prejudice and intolerance. He is the embodiment of the patriarchal system Mulan is fighting against, quick to dismiss her abilities because of her gender and unwavering in his belief that a woman's place is in the home, not on the battlefield.

His character embodies the frustrating reality of systemic bias, where individuals are judged not on their merits but on pre-conceived notions and societal expectations. This resonates particularly strongly with viewers, as many have experienced similar prejudices, whether based on gender, race, or other factors. Chi Fu becomes a symbol of the limitations imposed by societal norms and the struggle to break free from them.

While Chi Fu’s rigid adherence to tradition provides plenty of comedic fodder, it’s this very rigidity that makes him such a formidable obstacle for Mulan. He represents the status quo, the deeply ingrained societal norms that Mulan dares to challenge. His disapproval is a constant reminder of the risks she takes, the potential consequences she faces not only for herself but also for her family and her country.

Beyond the societal commentary, there’s another layer to Chi Fu’s villainy that deserves mention: his utter lack of self-awareness. He is completely oblivious to his own shortcomings, blinded by his inflated sense of importance and unwavering belief in his own righteousness. This lack of introspection, coupled with his constant need to assert his authority, makes him an easy target for both scorn and laughter from the audience.

Now, let’s talk about those comedic moments. While Chi Fu’s rigidity and prejudice are serious themes, Disney masterfully injects humor into his character, often at his own expense. Who can forget his dramatic fall from grace, tumbling headfirst into a plate of rice after a particularly pompous declaration? These moments of comic relief, while entertaining, also serve a purpose: they highlight the absurdity of Chi Fu’s worldview and ultimately undermine his authority.

In the grand scheme of Disney villains, Chi Fu might seem small-scale, his ambitions limited to maintaining order and upholding tradition. Yet, his impact is undeniable. He serves as a powerful reminder of the insidious nature of prejudice and the importance of challenging the status quo. And let's be honest, his constant fumbling and over-the-top reactions make for some seriously entertaining viewing.

Chi Fu might not be the most terrifying villain in the Disney universe, but his blend of prejudice, rigidity, and comedic buffoonery makes him a memorable antagonist who ultimately reinforces Mulan’s heroism and message of empowerment.