Clip-art created by Connor Stewart
Hollywood: The Homeland of Media
Racism, feminism and diversity are three hot-seat topics within modern society. While the three might not seem like top priorities, they have proved otherwise. If one were to look for a societal example of this, they would look to the United States’ capital of film, Hollywood. Within this array of films, television shows and countless media outlets stand the core values of Hollywood: success and prosperity. While these remain the core values of the film industry, other values have paved the way for themselves. Moreover, the idea that constant inclusivity is vital to the success of media has increased dramatically in recent years.
I believe inclusivity is a terminology that composes itself of social ideals regarding racism, feminism, homophobia and xenophobia. With this in mind, one can deduce how inclusivity has impacted how the media portrays social issues and constructs. On a similar note, companies have the power of persuasion as they possess loyal fan bases who would believe any propaganda. To add to that, there are a select few companies that are so beloved and cherished that their actions reach every corner of the world. This allows their actions to heavily influence the media and its stance on social issues. A company of this elite stature is Disney.
Elite Companies like Disney Change Original Styles to Fit in With the New Normal
Disney, founded in 1923 by brothers Walt and Roy Disney, had its reputation and catalog built off the ideals of a classic fairy tale. To jump ahead 80 years, Disney is currently in the works of producing a live-action version of Disney’s first-ever movie “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” What I find ironic is that the new version shares little to no similarities with the version from 1937. As the movie will not hit theaters until 2025, there is no telling as to how accurate it is compared to its predecessor. However, from what I have seen and can tell, this movie will present itself as an entirely different entity. Key examples are the racial changes in the main parts of the cast, including the main character Snow White. As well as that, lead actress Rachel Zegler said that this live-action will be different than before.
“I just mean that it is no longer 1937 and we absolutely wrote a Snow White that… she is not going to be saved by the prince. She is not going to be dreaming about true love, she is dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be.”
-Zegler said during a Variety interview at the D23 Expo in September of 2022.
Are the Actions of Disney Commendable?
Due to her statement, I can say that this movie will not reflect its past form and theme. However, I can also say that I know this movie will disguise itself as a corporate statement regarding inclusivity. To look at all aspects head-on, the fact that the main character resembles the original Snow White in no way should be the first sign of warning. In addition, when the inaugural shooting sessions began, the media found out via images that the iconic seven dwarfs did not replicate the original movie. Not only were they actors of different races, but they were not little people.
However, that was all rectified as new images and clips of the movie have come to light. With this, one could see that the seven dwarfs accurately depict the 1937 version. Nonetheless, the fact that they would cast people who do not have dwarfism in a role that was made for those who do is severely questionable. By doing this, they were taking work away from a marginalized group, who I believed was entitled to the role.
The Harsh Impact of Modern Feminism and Inclusivity
As well as this, the movie’s new theme now conforms to societal expectations, which is where a majority of my annoyance sources from. As Zegler said, Snow White will be a leader, not a damsel in distress. It is clear that the movie will focus on the ideals of modern-day feminism and will ruin the reputation of its predecessor. This is a prime example of the misuse and over-saturation of inclusivity. While I understand and support the core values of feminism, this is a step too far. If Disney wanted to express their support for feminism, they could have made a different movie that fit that role.
What I believe to be true feminism and true inclusivity is the making of specialized roles for marginalized groups and highlighting important societal ideals. Simply sticking people of different backgrounds into positions that do not represent them is not effective. This mindset does not allow these actors to forge their path; it only allows them to change and manipulate the original message of their respective movies. To go with that, an inaccurate portrayal of a classic like Snow White angers fans and media critics alike. Even though I am not an avid Disney fan, I would still like to watch a live-action movie and have it emulate its previous version.
As always, inclusivity is vital to a properly functioning society. However, the over-saturation of it is not necessary. Similar to everything else in human life, the necessity of moderation is monumental.
