We have heard a lot about cancel culture in recent years and the impact they have on movies that many of us may have watched our entire lives. Scholars are now raising concerns about some impacts of Disney films and how they can affect young viewers.
One of the scholars who went after one particular Disney movie is from the University of East Anglia, Dr. Victoria Cann. Although she may have her opinions about many Disney movies, she feels that one is particularly a problem, Beauty and the Beast.
In explaining her thoughts about the movie, she said: “This is the most dangerous because the Beast always feels on the verge of violence.” She speaks about the underlying narrative of the movie, saying that it ‘gives the unnerving idea that if a woman perseveres long enough, she can change an angry partner.’
Another issue that the doctor finds with the movie is in the conclusion. She said that ‘the beast then turns into this blonde-haired white man for another happy ever after, giving the idea that now he’s good looking, he can’t possibly be angry or threatening.’
Dr. Cann is also concerned about racial representation in these Disney movies. For example, in Aladdin, the complexion of the character seems to be in line with the morals of the individual.
She said: “All the ‘good’ characters, including Aladdin, have pale skin, while the baddies have darker skin.”
The Lion King is another movie where she feels that racial issues exist. The villain of the movie, Scar is a lot darker than the other characters in the movie.
Dr. Cann is not the only expert who feels that these movies are deserving of criticism. Dr. Laura Coffey-Glover from Nottingham Trent University centers focused on Snow White, saying that it creates an unrealistic expectation for young girls because it portrays women as passive characters waiting for a male to rescue them.
These doctors also speak about body image and consent, which are a problem in many Disney movies by their estimation. They condemn both Sleeping Beauty and Snow White for scenes that depict unconscious women being kissed without their consent. Some feel that this ‘normalizes men’s sense of entitlement over women’s bodies.’
The portrayal of the female body standards in the film was also scrutinized. In Sleeping Beauty, the Princess has an ‘impossibly thin waist’ that may contribute to an unhealthy body image by young viewers.
Not all Disney movies are under fire. Frozen, and some other recent Disney productions were praised for being progressive, empowering females, and promoting family unity.
