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December 12, 2024
Disney movies have recently begun to divide into two categories - the older classics and the modern films. Classics such as “Cinderella,” “Peter Pan,” and “Beauty and the Beast” all contain more traditional ideas, and often stereotypical representations of race and gender. Newer Disney films including “Frozen,” “Moana,” and, “Coco,” are much more diverse in their representation of race and gender roles, straying away from stereotypical and harmful portrayals.
Controversial portrayals of Native Americans in “Peter Pan” (Photo Credit: New York Times)
Earlier Disney movies have racist depictions of characters and even use slurs in reference to Native Americans in “Peter Pan.” Both “Lady and the Tramp” and “The Aristocats” contain Asian characters that are depicted in racist and stereotypical ways. Because of these racist depictions along with movies such as “Dumbo” and “The Jungle Book,” Disney updated their content warning on certain movies in 2020.
In recent movies, Disney has much more diversity in their characters and representation. “Moana” centers around Polynesian culture and characters, and “Coco” highlights Día de los Muertos and many aspects of Mexican culture. The films also have a cast that reflects the ethnicity of their characters, instead of having strictly white voice actors like many older Disney films.
“It is crucial to recognize that old Disney movies were a product of their time and often perpetuated harmful stereotypes and outdated ideals… however the impacts they can have on an impressionable audience are monumental,” said Liamba Ngenda.
Other than racial stereotypes, Disney also commonly portrayed gender stereotypes in their movies. Many films like, “Cinderella,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and, “Beauty and the Beast” embody ideas about gender roles that are much more traditional, and potentially harmful. While these movies are incredibly nostalgic for many, they also tend to have outdated themes and ideas that can be harmful.
Disney often puts female characters in one set personality - that of a young woman who is sensitive, tame, and overall hyper-feminine. The older films rarely portrayed women in a light that highlighted their independence, individuality, and strength.
These movies also commonly centered around a man’s perspective on the main female character. In movies such as “Cinderella” and “Sleeping Beauty,” the woman’s looks are often the highlight of their character.
Today, Disney movies produce female characters who have their independence and individuality emphasized, such as, “Frozen,” and, “Moana.” Newer movies have plots that follow a female lead, often strong characters who defy societal expectations and stereotypes.
While the classic Disney movies may be nostalgic for many, they ultimately contain harmful stereotypes and ideas about gender roles in society. And because children are often the targeted audience of these films, it is even more vital that they portray ideas that encourage individuality and independence.
Sources: Screen Rant, BBC
Fairy Godmother in “Cinderella” transforming Cinderella for the ball (Photo Credit: Disney)
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