The Disney Princess lineup is known for inspiring girls all over the world to be the kindest, bravest, most loving and strongest versions of themselves they can be. However, in a franchise that prides itself on inclusivity, a look at the 12 princesses lined up next to each other is indicative of one thing: the overwhelming whiteness of it all.
Sure, Disney has made steps to diversify their lineup, but as it stands, the only variation from the 50 shades of "Germany, possibly France" were Tiana, Pocahontas, Jasmine, and Mulan. But years of asking for more from the happiest company on Earth are slowly but surely making their payoff as Disney steps up with a much needed variation in their representation.
Rumors have flown around for the past couple years, but in the last week Disney finally announced their next feature princess movie to be released on November 23, 2016, titled "Moana," directed by the same people behind "The Little Mermaid" and "The Princess and the Frog." The movie follows the main character, Moana Waialiki, in her adventures through the fictional South Pacific islands of Oceania with the demi-God Maui (to be voiced by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson) and her animal friends, Pua the pig and Hei Hei the rooster.
This musical has already stirred up excitement from many Disney fans for more reasons than one. The character design reveal showed that Moana's design will differ from the recent princesses: she isn't abnormally thin, her eyes aren't bigger than her wrist or arms. In fact, she seems to have a relatively normal body shape and looks very much like the 14-year-old girl she is. Her characterization (from what little we've been told) is reminiscent of the spunky Pocahontas and her story, much like other recent Disney movies, and centers on family.
But the biggest thing about Moana is her race. Not only has Disney elected to diversify their princess lineup, but has also given us a princess from a group that is typically underrepresented in modern media: the South Pacific. This movie, having a basis on folklore and legend, however great the concept is, obviously has some fans worried.
Disney doesn't have the cleanest record of portraying non-white cultures, particularly those of Asian or Indigenous descent. The most notable of all of these would be Pocahontas, which the company released in 1995. The movie showed a lack of understanding, not only of the history of the real life Pocahontas, but a mis-representation of the culture as well. Even "Big Hero 6," the smash hit Disney/Marvel movie from last year, was guilty of being problematic, white-washing and race-bending the previously all-Asian cast of characters.
However, many fans have placed their trust in Disney, who, with this feature, are taking steps to prevent these things from happening. From cultural consultants to Polynesian cast and movie staff, there are efforts being made to bridge the gaps between underrepresentation and bad representation and to ensure the movie is as respectful as it is entertaining.
Overall, the concept and idea of the movie is great, and Moana is sure to be a princess that we will all love and never forget.
