Disney’s Dilemma In The Pursuit Of Diversity
Walt Disney is celebrating its 100th year anniversary—a commemoration of heroes, villains and everything else in between.
The entertainment conglomerate has built an empire on tried-and-true formulas highlighting the triumph of good over evil through iconic characters.
But throughout the last decade, Disney has attempted to diversify its characters in classic stories, such as the 2023 live-action version of The Little Mermaid that features Halle Bailey as Ariel and the upcoming Snow White adaptation slated for 2025 that casts a Hispanic lead.
However, those efforts have hit Disney’s pocketbook hard.
In its last quarter, the media giant reported that it lost more than $500 million in revenue from its streaming services.
Disney’s losses are attributed to several factors, including the company’s decision to stop licensing its films to popular streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu to build its own streaming platform, Disney+.
However, many fans believe Disney’s decisions, such as the integration of LGBTQ+ characters into films like Toy Story 4 and the Incredibles 2, has played a big role in their profit decrease.
Yet, while the company widely appears to be promoting diversity in new films, it is not necessarily including it.
Oftentimes, movie adaptations change favorite characters so much that it distracts from the heart of the movie, and the diversity Disney seeks is never successfully obtained.
I think the company should focus on the development of new characters, such as those in Moana and Coco. That allows for authentic storytelling and an additional layer of exploration that existing characters might not fully capture.
Their stories can be developed organically within their cultural contexts, allowing audiences to connect with these characters on a deeper level.
It’s essential to remember that diversity goes beyond appearances; it’s about telling authentic stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
The beauty of introducing new characters lies in the limitless opportunities for innovation. Disney is known for groundbreaking storytelling, and it can continue this tradition by crafting entirely new narratives.
These fresh characters offer untapped potential for engaging stories, cultural exploration and character development. They can become the heroes and heroines of the next generation, leaving their indelible mark on the world of animation.
Inclusivity is not about erasing the past but building a more equitable and diverse future. Disney’s classic characters hold a special place in the hearts of millions around the world.
Changing their fundamental characteristics risks alienating fans who hold these characters dear.
