Disney's powerful retelling of a tale as old as time cannot be underestimated. A testament to the increasing diversity within Disney films, this film celebrated multiculturalism and individuality. The original animated film was inspiring in its own right; encouraging girls to be themselves and to never let any man reduce them to a trophy to be won, however this new retelling goes even further.
While the film is aesthetically pleasing in its own right, it wasn't the stunning cinematography or costumes that made the film special. It celebrates all kinds of people, not just ones who fit into a small provincial mindset. With an "exclusively gay moment" and a racially diverse cast, Disney has expanded its horizons and made a strong political statement.
Normalizing diversity in film has a profound effect on the children seeing it. For those who don't fit in to the antiquated idea of gender roles, for those who feel alone, for children of color who aren't used to seeing someone who looks like them on screen, and for young members of the LGBTQ+ community who fear abuse and harassment; this film tells them they are worthy of a fairytale. The increasing representation of diversity within Disney's films will have a profound effect on the children watching them, and normalizing all kinds of people and lifestyles is what today's children need. In an increasingly divided country it is important to celebrate all kinds of people and lifestyles, encouraging children to do the same. While the leadership of our country tries to divide and separate us, it is the unashamed celebration of our differences in films like this that bring us together. Visibility increases the dialogue about diversity and acceptance, encouraging us to reflect and grow to be a more compassionate society.
While the film is special to me for its diversity and celebration of all kinds of people many are electing to boycott it for just those same reasons. Even a movie theater in DeKalb County refused to show the film for its portrayal of LeFou as an openly gay character. to them I only have one thing to say, I hope they enjoy their small-minded, provincial life.
