Disney’s Beauty and the Beast has been called the “Most Dangerous Film” due to its unexpected risks and safety concerns.
Recently, Disney’s classic movie Beauty and the Beast has sparked controversy, with some experts calling it the “most dangerous” film in their catalog.
Scholars are expressing concerns about the potential effects of classic Disney films on young viewers.
They highlight troubling messages and stereotypes embedded in these beloved stories.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast labeled “Most Dangerous Film” for unexpected risks
Concerns about violence
Dr. Victoria Cann from the University of East Anglia has been vocal about her concerns regarding Beauty and the Beast.
She argues that the film presents a dangerous narrative, as the Beast constantly appears to be on the brink of violence.
“This is the most dangerous because the Beast always feels on the verge of violence,” she explained.
Dr. Cann explains that the film sends an unsettling message.
She believes if a woman is patient and enduring, she can change a violent partner, which could have serious psychological effects on young audiences.
The conclusion of the film raises additional issues for Dr. Cann.
She notes that the Beast becomes a handsome, blonde man, implying that physical appearance can change a person’s nature.
Once the Beast becomes attractive, he is no longer seen as threatening, sending a misleading message about looks and behavior.
Racial Representation Issues
Racial representation is another significant concern highlighted by Dr. Cann.
She draws attention to patterns in films like Aladdin, where the skin tone of characters often correlates with their moral standing.
According to her observations, all the “good” characters, such as Aladdin, have lighter skin, while the villains tend to have darker complexions.
This trend is seen in The Lion King, where Scar’s darker appearance reinforces negative stereotypes.
“All the ‘good’ characters, including Aladdin, have pale skin, while the baddies have darker skin,” she observes.
Gender Roles and Expectations
Other experts have added to the critique of Disney films, particularly regarding gender roles.
Dr. Laura Coffey-Glover from Nottingham Trent University argues that movies like Snow White set unrealistic expectations for girls.
In these films, women are often portrayed as passive characters who wait to be rescued by men, which can diminish their sense of agency.
The issues of consent and body image are also significant topics in these discussions.
Both Snow White and Sleeping Beauty feature scenes where unconscious women are kissed without consent.
Researchers warn that such portrayals can normalize a sense of entitlement among men regarding women’s bodies.
Impact on Body Image
The portrayal of women’s bodies in these films is under scrutiny as well.
Sleeping Beauty, in particular, has been criticized for depicting an “impossibly thin waist.”
Such unrealistic body standards can lead to unhealthy perceptions of body image among young viewers, contributing to issues like low self-esteem and eating disorders.
A change in modern Disney films
In contrast to older films, more recent Disney productions like Frozen have been praised for presenting progressive themes.
These newer films focus on female empowerment, friendship, and family loyalty.
They encourage young viewers to embrace their individuality and strength, contrasting sharply with the messages found in earlier classics.
The criticisms surrounding Beauty and the Beast and other classic Disney films highlight the need for careful consideration of the messages conveyed to young audiences.
Scholars note that while these films are beloved, they also carry harmful or misleading messages.
Parents and guardians may want to engage in discussions with children about the themes and portrayals in these films.
By doing so, they can help children develop a critical understanding of the media they consume, promoting healthier attitudes towards relationships, consent, and body image.
As Disney evolves, it will be interesting to see how future films address these important issues and what messages they choose to convey to the next generation.