Yes, I did hear Ziyi is difficult to work with. :lol

That being said, she is a beautiful girl, with or without makeup, but I cannot bring myself to love her. I think she can carry herself and film roles quite capably, but I never find myself emotionally invested in her characters EXCEPT in "The Road Home". She'll probably get better with age.

Although, at this point, I just think, though not as recognized or as immediately beautiful, that Zhou Xun is more skilled. But she'll probably never be as big as Ziyi is internationally. I still love her more though. :lol Zhou Xun has this tough, restless, mournful quality about her that is just innate and is absolutely wonderful to watch.

As for her being Mulan, this is actually something I could see Ziyi doing. She would be believable as a slight young boy taking her father's place in the army. Reference Zu and HOFD for this.

If you like Ziyi, you'll probably like Jasmine Women for the types of women she ends up being. She jumps from a unknowingly sensual, bright-eyed young talent, to angry vengeful bitch, to naive but tough young woman. The movie doesn't suck, but I don't crazy love it. I loved Joan Chen though. Ziyi was alright as well. And the film's look is amazing.