Understanding the Controversy

Many fans of Disney’s animated classics were taken by surprise when Beauty and the Beast was labeled as the ‘most dangerous’ film. This unexpected critique stems from current scholarly debates focusing on the psychological influence these beloved films may wield over young audiences.

At the forefront of this discussion is Dr. Victoria Cann from the University of East Anglia, who has voiced her concerns specifically about Beauty and the Beast.

The Beast’s Temperament

“This is the most dangerous because the Beast always feels on the verge of violence,” Dr. Cann explained in an interview. Her issue with the film’s narrative lies in its suggestion that a woman’s perseverance might alter an aggressive partner’s nature. She points out how the movie culminates with the Beast transforming into a blond, white man, insinuating that attractiveness negates his prior threatening demeanor.

Racial Representation Concerns

The depiction of race in classic Disney films is another area that has sparked debate. Dr. Cann observes that in films like Aladdin, there’s a troubling association between the color of a character’s skin and their moral standing. For instance, the protagonists, including Aladdin, are shown with lighter skin tones, in contrast to the antagonists who possess darker hues.

Similarly, The Lion King showcases Scar, the villain, with noticeably darker features compared to other characters, reinforcing these problematic racial undertones.

Related Concerns in Other Disney Films

Dr. Laura Coffey-Glover, another academic, has critiqued Disney’s female portrayals, particularly in movies like Snow White, which she argues promote passive female roles whereby women await rescue by men. These portrayals, she contends, could set unrealistic expectations for young viewers.

Consent and Body Image

A recurring theme in these discussions includes how Disney classics address issues of consent and body image. Snow White and Sleeping Beauty are both highlighted for featuring scenes where unconscious women are kissed without consent, a motif some scholars argue inadvertently normalizes male entitlement over women’s bodies.

Furthermore, these films perpetuate unrealistic body standards; Sleeping Beauty, in particular, is noted for suggesting an ‘impossibly thin waist,’ which could contribute to unhealthy self-image perceptions among young viewers.

Progress in Recent Productions

Contrasting these older films, newer Disney projects like Frozen are praised for their progressive narratives. These include themes of female empowerment, the importance of friendship, and family loyalty, providing a more positive influence on young audiences.

It’s clear that Disney films remain central to discussions on societal norms and influences, highlighting the careful balance storytellers must navigate when crafting narratives for impressionable audiences.”