Part 10/13:
Designing Mushu was an extensive process, involving hundreds of sketches and numerous iterations. The animator recounted that the design process was nearly six months long, with continuous tweaks based on animation tests. These tests were invaluable—they revealed the character’s potential and allowed the team to explore different expressions, gestures, and personality nuances.
Most of these refinements happened early in production, with the initial 90% of Mushu’s appearance being shaped in the first four months. Later adjustments mainly consisted of minor tweaks for refinement and "Disney perfectionism." Animation tests went beyond static images; they involved exploring how Mushu moved, gestured, and expressed himself, which ultimately created a more believable and vibrant character.