The All-American Values Live On Through Disney
By Hannah Miller
Of all the messages streaming through today's media, such as sex, money, power and fame, "wishing upon a star" is certainly one to be encouraged.
We have all shared special moments with Disney and their characters. For some it is "The Little Mermaid," when Ariel sings of freedom atop that perfectly-placed, majestic rock with the waves crashing behind her; for others it may be "Beauty and the Beast," when Lumière invites Belle to "be our guest."
Disney successfully built a marketable world of magic, the "Happiest Place on Earth," where all your dreams come true. Rare among the early entertainment industry, Walt Disney was a self-made man whose personal experiences were consistent with the morals of his magical tales.
In 1923, Walt and his brother, Roy Disney, started the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in their uncle's garage in downtown Los Angeles. With Alice's Wonderland in his back pocket, Walt developed an all-cartoon series revolving around his first original character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit.
After distribution issues between Disney and Winkler Pictures Walt Disney and animator Ub Iwerks created Mortimer Mouse, later renamed to become the iconic Mickey Mouse. From a garage to the world's largest media conglomerate, Walt Disney's achievements cannot be denied recognition.
Of course, even the most innocent and uplifting stories cannot go unscathed by today's critics. In Disney's defense, the majority of their animated classics are based on the Grimm Brothers' fairytales. Also, the earliest Disney films, such as "Snow White" and "Alice in Wonderland," are representative of their era; therefore, few modern feminine roles and cultural ethnicities are depicted.
While a critical eye may glare upon Ariel's lost voice as an excuse to use her body to win over Prince Eric, or Belle as being trapped in an abusive relationship, simply a different (and perhaps more reasonable) perspective would be that these female characters won their princes' hearts through both their inner and outer beauty.
The same argument applies to every heroic female character, such as Mulan and Pocahontas, who were leaders in grand adventures and saved their nations, while staying true to their hearts. While feminists and modern society may frown upon these key characteristics, they are nonetheless desired by females of all ages.
Whether you argue with biology, psychology or sociology, there are proven reasons why girls are captivated by princess gowns, beautiful singing voices and adventures with sidekicks on horseback.
Yet, we need not forget that, beyond Mickey Mouse, Prince Charming, 14 award-winning theme parks, and the world's largest media conglomerate, Disney provides one of the most unique gifts known to mankind: storytelling. Walt Disney Company inspires and entertains, but these goals would not be possible without the brilliant craft of storytelling.
Not only has Disney perfected and beautified this art, but it has also made it available to millions worldwide.
Any company successful in preserving the art of storytelling, while simultaneously reaching millions, is worthy of deep respect, if not the reputation of fantastical genius.
Hannah Miller is a junior communications major.