Frog Princess damage control: Disney fends off outcry over cel animated movie

When John Lasseter stood on the stage in New Orleans’ Ernest N. Morial Convention Center last March and announced WDFA’s latest project, The Frog Princess, it was supposed to be a proud moment for the entertainment conglomerate.

The Frog Princess was going to be the first cel-animated movie from Disney since 2005. Not only that, the Mouse House was bringing back the legendary team of Ron Clements and John Musker (Aladdin, The Little Mermaid) to develop the project.

To make this film even more spectacular, The Frog Princess was going be set in 1920’s New Orleans and feature the character of Maddy, who would become the first African-American Disney princess. Anika Noni Rose won the role, after a highly-publicized casting call.

Fast-forward to a month later, and Disney’s PR department is running scared, telling Internet bloggers and news organizations everything they know about the movie is wrong.

“ . . . there is incorrect information being circulated about Disney's 2009 motion picture The Princess and the Frog (whose previous working title was The Frog Princess),” the press statement read.

“The central character is a young girl named Princess Tiana. The story takes place in the charming elegance and grandeur of New Orleans' fabled French Quarter during the Jazz Age . . . Princess Tiana will be a heroine in the great tradition of Disney's rich animated fairy tale legacy, and all other characters and aspects of the story will be treated with the greatest respect and sensitivity.

“This American fairy tale is several years away from completion and the creative process is ongoing . . . unfortunately much of the information that has surfaced, including the casting breakdown . . . is inaccurate. When we do casting calls we frequently use substitute information as we don't want details out about the movies. Therefore that information you have is incorrect."

It's simple. Disney’s euphoria quickly turned to horror when bloggers exploded over what they saw as racist elements in this flick.

“I was not only unimpressed with this too-little-too-late idea, but downright wary of the thought of White folks writing about Black folks and presenting it to Black children,” wrote Jennifer Daniels on BET. “As it turned out, my ‘Boys’ could write a better story than this.”

The vitriol continues: “ . . . our plucky young Black protagonist, Maddy, as a chambermaid. There's also a plantation owner, two practitioners of voodoo – one a Magical Negro, the other a villain – a singing alligator, and score by the whitest White man to ever rest his head in the Big Easy, Randy Newman. (Were the Neville brothers & Harry Connick, Jr., busy?). Knowing Disney, I'm sure there's a dead parent somewhere in the mix. The living parent, Maddy's mother Eudora, is also a maid. Somebody turns into a frog. Oh, and the prince is White."

Daniels denounced, “a movie like The Frog Princess, with its touching tale of a po' Black chile (sic) being rescued from the Big Black Voodoo Daddy by a great White hope in the pre-Civil Rights Movement South not only offensive and ignorant of history, but highly insensitive as well.”

Others complained the name “Maddy” sounded like a slave’s name and that her position as chambermaid for a spoiled, white girl was demeaning. Oh yes, and many were offended that the film’s villain, Dr. Duvalier, was a voodoo priest.

Needless to say, Disney was shocked over this racial firestorm especially since the Mouse House is considering re-issuing 1946’s Song of the South on DVD.

SotS, despite being an Oscar-winning movie, has as many detractors as admirers. Some praised the film’s animation and story while others claimed the character of Uncle Remus was pandering to White stereotypes of southern blacks.

Bowing to public pressure, Disney CEO Robert Iger recently softened his stance on releasing it on DVD. He asked chairman Dick Cook to determine whether the time was right to return Song of the South to store shelves. He even asked Clements & Musker to create a teaser for The Princess and the Frog to go on the DVD. However, the Mouse House is now frightened that the current controversy will destroy any chance of Song of the South getting a fair shake.

At this point, rumour says the Mouse House is considering a limited run of SotS DVD’s under the Disney Treasures banner to test whether or not the movie will still cause an uproar among the PC brigade.

If the film does well, then Disney may wide-release Song of the South on Blu-Ray. However, there’s no way they want to link this movie to The Princess and the Frog, considering the separate firestorms happening with this movie.

May 9, 2008 6:52 PM

Guest :

I'm african american and well I'm excited for this movie. I think its really cool that they will be having a black princess.Butwow... Wasn't the 'chambermaid' type job in Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and if I'm right Cinderella?? Anywho,of that's what they want to do..so be it, I guess. But personally I don't care if the prince she hooks up with is white. Actually I hope he's white. That would be cute. It's funny how people kindof overreact over small things like that. Maddy a slave name?? ha that's funny, considering its quite a popular name.

Jun 3, 2008 1:09 PM

Guest :

Okay. I'm a white 17 year old who just finnished watching The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I love Disney movies. I live in a small town down in the south. I'm live in Louisiana! I'm about 1 and a half hours from New Orleans. Saying that. That woman below me is right. Cinderella was a chamber maid. I'm not really sure about Snow White. Its been awhile since I saw that one. Sleeping Beauty...ehh not so much. But I think this will be a great movie! Plus. That picture above I'm not sure if she has wings or what it is but its a a great picture. I say to those calling out about racism must me racist yourself to notice that kind of things. I didnt even think of it till it ws pointed out to me! We are living in the year 2008. Unfornetly racism is still real. I for one think this is a perfect movie. ((Rasict remark on her getting with a White guy? I THINK ITS GREAT! to show that African Americans and Caucasion together as one being.))

Jun 4, 2008 5:59 AM

Guest :

As the white mother of a black 5 year old girl, racism aside, I look at the images from The Frog Princess and I don't get the same sort of magic from it that I do with other Princesses. What's wrong with a real princess in an African setting?

Jun 7, 2008 9:03 PM

Guest :

i think this movie will be awasome it's stepping out of the steriotypical princess into another era that there are not many children would know about.
plus she has my neice's name and think she shall be very excited to know she is a disney princess

Aug 17, 2008 4:34 PM

Guest :

Realy though, why does the prince need to be white? A lot of people disreard that little fact for various reasons but why can't he be black?
Even in hollywood think about it,how often do you see a black man and woman together and in love with out a whole mess of drama?
It is subconsiosly force feeding inter racial relaionships.
I sure don't want my daughher excited to grow up thinking her price charming is supposed to be a white man.

Sorry, but it's not right. I was excited about the movie until I heard about that little tid bit.

Aug 24, 2008 10:34 AM

Guest :

Umm...wow... I'm sorry, but I don't see the big deal. This world tends to overreact about things like that and label it as racist. I don't get it. Like a lot of these people said, many white princesses were chambermaids or whatnot too. It's just the normal disney princess scenario. You know, girl who has nothing but dreams big, finds her prince, becomes a princess. It's always annoying when a huge uproar starts just because someone other than white pops up and people need to desperately find small details to flame about. I'm sorry flamers, but get a life and actually enjoy something instead of point fingers. I, for one, would think this is a good movie and am relieved that they have a 2D movie coming out after so many years. My little sister will love this too since she is obsessed with Disney princesses and will be glad to have another one.

Sep 4, 2008 4:27 AM

Guest :

Generally in Disney movies, the prince is of the same ethnic and cultural background as the princess. Still, with Aladdin, Pocahontas and Hunchback, the male "Princes" are of a more caucasian (lighter complexion) than the Princesses. This hasn't gone unnoticed, and the fury and failure of those last two pictures mentioned should have been lesson enough on the importance of imagery and what to avoid. Disney has already done the interracial cast thing with its live version of Cinderella, starring Brandy Norwood. So while the idea of racial harmony and equality is a nice one and should be promoted, the first African-American Princes story should not be the vehicle for that. Come up with a different story altogether to promote those ideas.

Sep 17, 2008 7:22 PM

Guest :

It seems stupid to me that everyone is obsessing over race. So she's black! And the big deal is? She's a person, albeit a cartoon person, and race should not define her.

Sep 19, 2008 4:06 PM

Guest :

I'm really disappointed in anyone whom can view the prospect of this movie as being anything negative to the AFrican American community. I am African American and also a Disney cartoon lover! For years I've been wanting a Disney movie that our young girls can also aspire to. I look at my niece and how she loves to dress up as a princess, I just wish that some of the images she is aspiring to be like..looked like her. Too many times people focus on the negative and over looks the positive. Truth be told, unfortunately, WE WERE ONCE SLAVES...WE CAN'T CHANGE THAT..But do not be slaves of the mind. Do not limit yourselves in thinking that we are the stereotypes people think that we are. And do not believe that a movie can make us that! I SAY UP WITH THE FROG PRINCESS ASAP.
Chrystal Bethea
Columbia SC

Sep 21, 2008 12:25 PM

Guest :

White, black, tall, short, fat, thin ... I don't actually care what the main character or who she falls in love with looks like. As long as it's well writen, the characters are believable and everything stays true to the period it is set in.
There is too much focus on the fact she's of african origin... Snow White is German, Belle is French, Maid Marion is English, Mulan is Chinese, Pocahantus is Native American get the point yet?

Sep 25, 2008 9:36 AM

Guest :

ok. first off I cant wait to see this movie. Im excited that a black princess will be joining the crew. The name Tiana is perfect. Maddy would have been cute too. 1920's new orleans. Maybe they need to do history on what it was like there in the 1920's. and when i say THEY i mean those who complain about the movie. "There's also a plantation owner, two practitioners of voodoo" UMM..hello this is what it was like in the 1920's. whats so wrong about it. Most of the blacks then were light skinned and/or mixed anyway.Yes Jazz came alive then but not with out the help of the white people who owned the clubs or liked the music. Lets jus say the prince is not white. he's Creole. Does that make u feel better? And to the lady who asked about it being in Africa. Why does it need to be in Africa? Do you associate all blacks with Africa. Thats racist to me. they should be able to put a black princess in any setting. There are black folks everywhere. And to comment on Jennifer Daniels from BET about white folks writing black stories...ummm how many blacks work in the writing dept at Disney? How many blacks work for Disney period? It shouldnt matter whose telling the story as long as its told correctly. Who wrote Remember the Titans? How about Radio? Polly? didnt hear folks tripping then. Blacks were not ahead of the game in the 1920's at all. And we're not ahead of the game now. we will always be one step behind. as stated in earlier comments pretty much all the Disney princess's were maids of some sort. or poisened. u also have to consider the fact the girls were young. It wasnt a matter of them being maids(which seems to also mean slave nowadays). it was more like them working around the house. doing chores kids should be doing instead of searching u tube to learn the new soljah boy dance. YUUUAH!! lol Its cool for them to depict a white person as a maid but not a black person. why? b/c it hits too close to home? get over it. Blacks are never satisfied. Give us a movie about rich black folks and people start will shoot it down b/c thats not the way we were taught black folks lived. ha! Disney u cant win for losing on this one. btw, i dont this is to promote racial harmony or equality. they just dont have black princess. simple as that. and they need one to keep up with the times. Keep up the great work. We jus love how u send us new scandalous teenagers to talk about each year. And now a Black Princess. you guys have almost outdone yourselves. Good Luck Disney!

Sep 25, 2008 9:46 PM

Guest :

If people are complaining that the prince is white, isn't that racist? If children are shown only mono-racial relationships, will they automatically head for that type of relationship? In other words, Guest #3 (Jun 4, 2008 ), I thought your comment was ill thought out and may seem even racist.

Sep 30, 2008 12:25 AM

Guest :

Not too crazy about the story, background, and characters. I much rather it be based on a traditional fairy tale.

Oct 10, 2008 10:47 PM

Guest :

I think the biggest issue is that a black prince would have been great too! Not only would a movie of this caliber bode well for the girls, but also for the boys. I just want the movie done so that my daughters can envision themselves just like Princess Tiana. Thats whats most important to me. I wish they had made this movie long ago, so that my daughters would have someone else to identify with other than Princess Jasmine, which by the way is almost impossible to find in stores! I am beyond ready for this movie as so many other mothers and daughters. Thanks for making it!!

Nov 3, 2008 1:10 PM

Guest :

First, as others have said, cinderella was a chamber maid also. And what's with the tizzy about the voodoo priests? Disney movies almost always have some type of witch, wizard, or other magical creature that is bad.. at least there's a good voodoo priest to offset it so you don't have the implication that it's only bad.
as for the prince.. I agree that maybe he should have been black as well. But I also don't see anything necessarily wrong with showing that interracial relationships are just as valid and loving. Perhaps Disney was trying to make simultaneous points/messages with this movie?
I wouldn't call racism though and I really think that's ridiculous. I think some people want to jump at any tiny thing because it makes them feel superior or justifies their anger or hatred. I personally live in the south and I've seen plenty of racism, but never against an african american (not saying it doesn't happen, but some people really want to believe we're straight out of the civil war) The point being that it's insane that Disney is having to defend these invalid attacks.

Nov 3, 2008 6:36 PM

Guest :

wow. You think people would be proud of disney for putting more diversity in the princesses. Apparently not. What's with someting ALWAYS having to be racist, or someone always not happy baout something. How can a movie where the main character is a freaking black be racist? Oh, and apparently bcause blacks were slaves she cant be a chambermaid? Cinderella was one, omg! a white chamber maid?! racist plz.
I like the white prince idea. Its supporting interracial couples. WOuld you rather it be a black prince showing blacks should be with blacks and whites with whites?
I saw some people complaining about her having a big ass and big lips. But if she didnt have those features, wouldnt people complain about her features looking to much of that of a white? Like i said, some people will always be unhappy about things and will always find something to complain about.

Nov 11, 2008 7:54 AM

Guest :

What does almost EVERY Disney movie have in common 1) one or both of the parents are dead, 2) there is always a villein, and 3) the Princess is always treated like a slave.
Points one and two are so that the audience feels pity for the character, and becomes emotionally attached to it. Which is important for a good movie.
Would you feel the same about Cinderella, snow white, sleeping beauty?
As for the villain point, they always choose a character in some way connected to the main one. In this case hes a voodoo priest. Whats wrong with that? It adds character to the movie!
And as for people complaining about the prince being white. What is wrong with that? You don't think that a black girl should be able to date a white guy? That's kinda' racist. What about all the WHITE girls dating BLACK guys? I don't hear complaints about that!
All I have to say is that if your looking that hard to point the racism finger then your more than a little racist yourself!
If they have to ruin the movie just to make it the way everyone else wants it, they should just cancel the whole thing!
Maybe then these people would shut up.

Nov 25, 2008 12:46 PM

Guest :

Some of the authors on this page are talking about race not being an issue, but one would ask, if Snow White and Cinderella fell in love with a black man would White America accept it????? Let's be real, there would be major controversy about that. Also, why does the title have to be the Frog Princess or the Princess and the Frog or whatever? I mean let's just say them all together... Snow White, Cinderella, Pocahantas, Sleeping Beauty, and the Frog Princess????!!!I have a big problem with that. If we're talking about images in the media, why can't the black princess be an empress? Instead of a Frog Princess??? What's up with the slave name? Out of all the names in the planet!!!Just because we're the living product of our ancestor's struggles does not necessarily mean that we want to glorify it and then conclude the story with a White Prince. Why does it have to take place in New Orleans? All of the other fairy tales by Disney are based off of tales that were told centuries ago. Why not do their research on African folk tales that have been told in Africa for centuries as well? And let's not forget about the writers of the movie. Here's an idea...
let's have Black writers!!!! Let's try it!!! OBAMA 08!!!!
Yours truly, young black female college students

Nov 27, 2008 12:56 AM

Guest :

First, I would like to note my appreciation that Disney is hand-drawing this movie in keeping with the qualitative product that Disney is known for. In that regard, my only issue is the fact that the prince is not black. Every Disney princess movie with exception to Pocahontas, which was based on historical truths, had a prince with the same racial background. This movie should not be the exception. "The Princess and the Frog" should be consistent with the tradtion that has Disney established. It is important that black females AND males are able to identify with the main characters in the this movie. I implore Disney to reconsider the racial profile of the Frog Prince.

Dec 6, 2008 12:12 PM

Guest :

I saw the clip on Sleeping Beauty of the Princess and the Frog and I was very excited. Finally, a black princess! It's only fitting, and she looked so beautiful in that blue gown. Having read that the prince is white, my first thought was "huh? that won't work for the film" but then I realized it could. I'll love watching the romance unfold as long as they really do seem to love each other. In real life too, that's what matters. As for the person who commented about the titles, those ARE the titles of the stories. Disney didn't pick them. They just changed this one so it doesn't sound like the princess IS the frog. Consider that Beauty and the Beast isn't titled Belle, now, is it? Nor is Hunchback of Notredame called Esmeralda. You can't blame Disney for the title. I am curious about the New Orleans setting because there is no princess of New Orleans as far as I've ever heard, so I don't know how that'll work. I would have preferred a totally new place, like in The Little Mermaid. Still, I'm excited to know they're doing a new fully animated by cel movie and introducing a new princess. Oh, and Sleeping Beauty wasn't a maid at all. She was raised as a peasant, not a servant.

Dec 6, 2008 10:17 PM

Guest :

I am happy to see Disney making another animated movie. And "The Frog Princess" is based off the CLASSIC FAIRY TALE "The Frog Prince". I personally dont understand why the title was changed from prince to princess (i would assume legal issues with ownership of the title, who knows...its why Roudolph, Mrs. Clause, Frosty the Snow Man, and Ragity Ann are not in the Christmas parade at Disney...who owns them? idk. the wont let Disney use them. But I digress.) As for the Prince being white; yes it could have gone both ways. I even heard rumors that he was of hispanic decent. There are so many couples today from different ethnic backgrounds that the idea of it being a problem sickens me. Also, as to explain the look of the new princess, cartoon animators exagerate a lot of character traits and looks. Take Stewie Griffen from Family Guy (non Disney), large eyes, large football shaped head. These traits give help the identity of the charater. Think of this movie like theatre...the artistic director can present a vision. I've seen Shakespears Romeo and Juilet present as a Western. The vision is neither right or wrong, its just that: a vision of an artistic director. Take the movie as you will, however, dont call it racist because a white man is writting it. Disney knows how to do research, Disney has the sources and the money and todays technology to make sure every detail is right before they sale ANY of its product. People need to realize that Disney will NEVER be able to satisfy everyone in the world. Someone always walks out of its parks unsatisfied. Walter E. Disney's vision was to bring families together and to forget, even for just a moment, the crazy world that we live in. To bring the child at heart out of each and every one who watches a movie, goes to the park, or plays with disney toy. No where in that vision did it say to envoke racism or hatred. Disney is known for its Diversity. Its one of the things that it thrives on..."drawing creativity through diversity". By now, im just rambling on. People just need to leave it alone. If you dont want to see the movie, dont. But dont call it a racist work because of the movie's production background. K thanks.

Dec 9, 2008 11:59 AM

Guest :

Well i mean it took long enough! I mean we have an Arabic princess, a red head and everyone else. I'm just super excited to see Disney finally made a princess that fits the skin color of all little girls! Who cares about the name I didn't know names meant you were a slave. I'm black and I must have missed that one.

Dec 9, 2008 10:27 PM

Guest :

As a young african american women who grew up on Walt Disney movies, I think the concept of introducing an African AMerican princess is great. My parents have over the past few years, increasingly, have complained about the fact that the young children watching Disney films were not being educated in the many different cultures, due to the fact that the majority of their films are with either a Caucasian or of a lighter skin tone character profile. I, for one am looking forward to this film. I am prepared to read and here many people's thoughts on the matter due to the apparent "controversy" of all the details in this movie. Im going to just enjoy it for what it is...a child's film, not with all those hidden meanings and other negative Connotations. Im just looking forward to it, and intend to be the oldest person in the theatre without a child for an excuse!...

Dec 17, 2008 10:30 AM

Guest :

Wow..just...wow. I didn't even think of racsim until it was pointed out. I already like the character, especially in her 'formal gown'. It's cute.
I think it's a great idea that there is a possibility of mixed racial relationships going on...the world needs to see more of that....but why people are making a big hoopla because white people are creating it is almost sickening. I think that those haters are just vomitting insults because they are jealous whether the information above is fully true or not.

Dec 21, 2008 2:45 PM

Guest :

Good grief.

Dec 28, 2008 5:50 PM

Guest :

i am a black female. i grew up with the video song of the south and memorized all the lyrics and movements. i do not find it racially offensive and can't wait to take my children to see both movies!!! yeah for disney!!!

Dec 31, 2008 4:31 PM

Guest :

I too am an African-American who grew up loving Disney films. Jungle Book, Lion King, Mulan, Aladdin: I loved them all. I was even excited about the first black princess... until I found out the prince was white. My frustration stems from the many frustrations that I have had with the historical inaccuracy of Disney films. Pocahontas as an 18? year old involved romantically with a 20ish John Smith? Tiana with her white prince in Southern 1920s New Orleans? DISNEY! There is no feasible happily ever after to that story. If they want to make a story that shows interracial love, they'll need to pick a more modern time period.

Jan 7, 2009 11:39 PM

Guest :

i am sub-Sahara African and i just think Disney should have done research on African stories and not turn an European story into an African stories. But the frog princess is still okay,but they should have used an originally African story.

Jan 8, 2009 10:50 AM

Guest :

Well you will have to admit that i will give Disney the credit of making this movie. Being a black animator I think its really cool idea. But they are something that i think worries me and the fact that they don't have any black people writing the script. So the negative things whites hold about black people will come out in full force. Think about the other white movies where black people are portrayed all or mostly stereotypes. I will have to say the only animation that i've seen where black people are portrayed negatively is in Japanese animation (which is not true for all. They have stereotypes too. which are the same as white people so its like exported racism)and one french animation which was done the best(but was written by a white guy-thanks god he wasn't ignorant). As for someone saying that there were no African princess. There were African royalty. Go read some history books. And not the school book text.

Jan 8, 2009 10:59 AM

Guest :

Jan 9, 2009 10:28 AM

Guest :

I think this is a great idea. My neighbor is a white family who adopted an African American girl. On day she said to her mom "I want to be white, because all of the Disney Princesses are white." If anything is wrong, its that. This movie will show kids that black is beautiful too, and any little can be a princess, no matter what the color of their skin is. That's what really matters.

Jan 10, 2009 11:14 PM

Guest :

I am excited about this movie.African Americans were slaved by other aa's before and sold to white people in the NORTH and then brought to the south.The north were jealous because of the farms in the south and there success. i dont know why that is confusing.there's no reason to get mad at the movie song of the south, it was only a product of that time.I am from the south, and my family never owned slaves, because they were poor!I love disney movies.I hope that they get this one situated out because I would love to see it.I think that racism will always live and every race has been enslaved atleast once in history.:{

Jan 11, 2009 9:11 PM

Guest :

WOW! An African American in a HARMFUL environment? It MUST be racism, I mean it's not like it's a movie with an actual plot line which requires drama like every other Disney movie. Oh, wait, yes it is. Seriously if something is about an African American and has any negativity based on it it is quickly labeled off as racism. And to all those bloggers, it's not like you haven't seen the movie and at the time probably any movie footage or official Disney information. Oh wait, I guess you hadn't. It seems large parts of any group of people who haven't been treated fairly can say anyone who "oppresses" them-meaning people who say they are wrong or are too defensive-is racist or sexist, but really a lot of the time they are being treated more fairly than the group they claim oppresses them. I mean in the media-such as tv-men are almost always stereotyped as the idiots who treat their wifes as homemakers who can't do anything else and the wifes are always the smarter people. Of course men are still always labeled as feminist idiots when the people who are claiming to be oppressed are oppressing men. You could take what I just said and write it off as being sexist, for example, but it was not. Anyways I'm just happy they are bringing back cel animation.

Jan 14, 2009 11:15 PM

Guest :

omg everybody shut the * up. black this (oops i mean african american) and white this. make the stupid movie. and people need to get over their inferiority complexes and stop finding everything to copmlain about. what they dont understand is when they constantly point out things that are racist they're addressing that they are offended (and one is only offended when they feel inferior) if we start ignoring the crap about a white prince offending you or a name like maddy offending you then racism will go away cause if you're not offending someone how can it be racist!!!!!!! some minorites dont understand they perpetuate racism themselves because they just have these inferiority ccomplexes and are ashamed of their past. get over .. you were all slaves once .it happened. there were black vodoo priest and chamber maids that were black. IT HAPPENED

Jan 21, 2009 8:13 AM

Guest :

The person below me makes a good point, many of the other Disney princesses had to overcome obstacles or were in harsh situtations- for example Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Mulan. I'm really excited about the movie and I'm interested to see how it turns out. I'm also of african american descent and I feel that sometimes our people can be overly sensitive and sometimes contraversial. I'm sure that if the movie took place in Africa thst someone would complain about it too. Besides Black American history is not going to change, its in the past, tastefully doing a movie that relate to what we have gone through is a bad thing, in my opinion, I mean children learn about it in school anyways. I am sure that when kids watch the movie they'll think about how hard a life it was for that character in that certain situation, not that it's racist and degrades all Blacks by portraying what their lives once were like in American. If Disney wanted to they could make the movie anyway they wanted, it is one of their rights.Is there some unknown National Board of Black Review that must approve of everthing before it is produced?If Tyler Perry were making this movie would he be getting the same criticism?

Jan 23, 2009 11:31 AM

Guest :

Lawd! so much ado about nothing! I am a 65 year old African American Grandmother of 7 girls and 4 daughters, we are all excited about this new movie. If we learned anything recently is that "anything is possible" I have been waiting for these days to be upon us, so lets enjoy them. Please let Disney do what they do best....ENTERTAIN us!
I took my grands to Disneyworld's MGM Studios when they had the Hercules parade and when yjey saw the float with the Muses their faces lit up, they were so happy to see someone who looked like them. Thanks for that day Disney. Looking forward to this movie!
Grandma in Orlando

Jan 25, 2009 4:19 AM

Guest :

Oops! I apologize for the typos in my previous comments.

Thanks,
Grandma from Orlando

Jan 27, 2009 5:41 PM

Guest :

i am very excited to see disney finally going back to traditioal 2d animation...ijust got done watching hercules, i guess people could say that movie was racist to greeks? but no one did...whats the big deal with this story? i think people are getting worked up over racism, and the movie hasnt even come out yet!lol...i hope they dont pressure disney to halt production.

Feb 1, 2009 10:12 PM

Guest :

I'm really looking forward to seeing this movie and having a new and different Disney Princess! I hop that the story can survive all the criticism anwithout being sanitized into something completely plotless and boring.
Of course, it is important to be sensitive to the feelings of others, but obviously you can't please everyone and you can't avoid offending everyone. It's like that old fable about the man, boy, and the donkey going to town, when every passerby had a different suggestion about who should ride the donkey, and in the end the donkey drowns because the man and boy listen to everyone's complaints without using their common sense.
I am so excited and intrigued to see a black disney princess, and I hop that she gets to the big screen with her plot intact! If everyone and their brother gets their hands in the broth, either the story will end up being lost completely, or Disney will never be able to make this movie at all. Or they could change her to white and not have to worry about offending anyone... but what fun would that be? And how would we get our beautiful, black, disney princess?
Kudos for them using a mixed-race couple! Being from a military family, I know a lot of mixed race couples and children, and they still get funny looks from some people. Someday it will be considered normal!

Feb 18, 2009 12:15 PM

Guest :

It's about time they bring Song of the South out.

Feb 18, 2009 5:20 PM

Guest :

For Disney first black princes I feel they should keep the princes and the prince and most of the people African-American and keep it with the same elegance that the other princes have. Tiana is a beautiful name. Then if they want to do an interracial movie that would be fine but if this is suppose to be for African- American to finally have there princes it should be done right. And here gown should be a lot more beautiful with some colors that match are culture.

Feb 19, 2009 8:08 AM

Guest :

I'm excited for cell animation. I'm excited for Tiana. I'm excited to have a new romance to follow, and until I see the movie, I don't really have comments about it.

One thing I will say though. I don't have a problem with her dress. That's what kids think princesses look like, that's what they wear when they dress up, and in America, a big poofy dress is the ulitmate in romance.

Feb 19, 2009 8:34 PM

Guest :

I see I am a year late overall with finding this great article. I am a twenty three year old black female, and oddly enough in May of this year {2009} I am marrying the love of my life who happens to be a white male! We Live up north and sadly enough even today we have experienced racism here. I am completely overyjoyed that Disney is finally doing this. And to address the other comments before me: Especially at this point in the world, do you still believe that blacks immediately equal Africa? Brown skin can be found all over this planet. For those who believe the prince should be black need to remember that during the time of slavery, slave owners did in fact have children with some of the slaves they owned. The name doesn't matter, the story doesn't matter, and the race doesn't matter. The fact that Disney finally decided to do this is absolutely wonderful. As far as the comments about race, how many of you were this ruffled about Pocahontas? That girl was how old when she met John Smith? Had this been a film by Tyler Perry, would you react the same way? What about if you read this in a Zane book? Please get the bigger picture everyone. God made us in HIS image. We are all the same. People sadden me. I can only imagine what kind of uproar Disney well get if they do a Hispanic Princess or a Princess in a wheelchair.

Feb 27, 2009 2:46 AM

Guest :

To the last poster on Feb 19 2009 who is marrying a white male:

"We are created in God image" is man made lines so lets stick with facts not poetry. Why can't Disney experiment and show a black/white interracial cartoon in WHITE princess movie? A nice blond white princess who meets a nice DARK handsome black prince? Why push an agenda(which it is, disney always been more than just simple "cartoons") in the first black disney cartoon? Why break the formula for this movie(Pocahontas was losley based on real events)? Whats so horrible about a Black Prince saving(or being slaved) by a princess and show black love in a black(written by whites) story?

Plot of the movie:
White prince save black women from evil black man. Sorry for ruining the story.

I like the New Orleans concept, I like that he princess is dark skin, and I don't even have a problem with the evil black voodoo villain/antagonist.

Mar 1, 2009 4:30 PM

Suitepuma :

I would just like to say that first off, I am SO excited that Disney has decided to do a classical 2-D theater animation again! I also happen to be a 21 year Black female and I am so happy that they decided to include a Black princess in their classical collection because I know they didn't have to.
Now, as for the controversy... this is a tricky topic for several reasons...
1)It seems as if Disney originally wanted to stick with the same ol' formula (chambermaid, oppressed Princess, saved by Prince). We are living in a new feminist age where we like to see a semi-independent smart heroine and expect nothing less for our children.
The fact that they are making the story around a specific early American era About an African Americans doubles their task (I agree with everyone else who said they should have imitated an African folktale, at least they would have been consistent as far as making a foreign-derived fairytale)
What Black parent will want to take their child to a CARTOON movie and have them reminded about a terrible time in American history? Yes, it happened but that doesn't mean we want to constantly be reminded of that part (its only a part) of our history.
2) We ARE living in a new age BUT if everyone's argument seems to be that Disney wants to stay consistent with their fairy-tales then why change the formula when it comes to the race of the prince? I mean think about it...
Hey, I am all for interracial relationships it just seems like they are doing too much. Like someone else said, why not make the first interracial relationship between one of the White princesses? That would make more sense IMO.
It may not be their agenda, but they are making it seem as if White people can not handle seeing a story with all Black characters unless there is a White person involved, which I know is not true (please someone, tell me I'm right).
3)I hear the writers are White... Im not sure about this, I'm sure the writers will be great but i HOPE to death they consult with their Black counterparts throughout the production.
Seriously, controversy aside, this movie is gonna be great! I just know it, not Perfect, but definitely Disney standards. Looking at the snapshots of the movie the imagery is AMAZING! My inner child is waiting so anxiously for the premiere of this movie, I'm sure im going to cry when i see it for sure!

Mar 3, 2009 1:35 PM

Guest :

Stupid people will always find a way to turn a movie (especially Disney) into something to complain about. The fact is, it's our history they are representing in the movie, it will be charming and loved by all children and will probably have great music. Stop trying to turn it into racism, if you think something is derrogatory during the film, explain to your young child (Who will not pick up on it until YOU pass on this knowledge) that it is the way things USED to be and may not be at this time. Just like in every other Princess movie, there's some history of the time period being represented! Get your heads out of your a** people and STOP trying to make everything racist!

Mar 4, 2009 9:54 AM

Guest :

This is why I hate the internet!! I hate the idea that things are assumed to be "know" prior to the release of ANYTHING!! I raise my hat to those who comment that they are looking forward to this movie... I am a 20 something white girls who is also looking forward to this movie. Different reasons I am sure the no. one being it is not digital!!!
For all those who want to complain and leave negative comments... DONT WATCH IT THEN!! You can not go by what the media is telling you. Unless you are working on the project, shut your traps and wait till the movie comes out. No one knows the story or back ground unless they are working on the project. Get off your high horse and be glad to have another disney princess your daughters can fixate on.

Mar 9, 2009 5:59 PM

Guest :

Yeah yeah, I can see someone getting all upset because "white folks" wrote about "black foks".. whatever... but face it, nobody would be saying anything if "black folks" wrote it. Its a story, stop overlooking something nice. I'm sick of everything put out being deamed "racist". Find something else to do, really.
By the way, theres no big deal about the prince being white. Everyone complaining about it just looks ridiculous. You all wanted "equality" but, how dare someone make a black and white couple in a Disney movie?
To put it quite literally - I'm annoyed with different ethnicities getting so damn offended over every little thing. Grow up.

Mar 10, 2009 9:30 AM

Guest :

you know i just don't understand the big deal. You cant make everyone happy but honestly? i think the people who are making such a big deal over racism and having a white prince are the racist ones. So, would you be angry if your son or daughter came home with someone outside their race? are you saying this is what we need to teach our children that its wrong to love someone whose different? True, so she's a chambermaid, LIKE ALL THE OTHER PRINCESSES! get over yourselves and this stupid race issue, you cant possibly move forward if you're living in the past. And if you are teaching your children to hate on people different from them because in the past the same happened to your ancestors then you will in turn make them into the people you so despise. I see it everyday with some of the kids i work with and its so sad to me to see them treat a little white child with disdain. It's Disney, it's magical and its about overcoming your trials and tribulations and come out on top. If you have a problem with it don't watch it, but stop taking something simple and fun and twist it into something ugly and racist. those kind of people make me sick, just bring out the cartoon and stop all this negativity!!!!

Mar 10, 2009 3:07 PM

Guest :

Just two things:
1.) Yes, Snow White and Cinderella did 'maid's' jobs, but they more or less owned the places they were forced to clean! Thier birthright was stolen from them by jealous stepmothers, and reinstated when they found love.
Tiana is a true servant of the household, unless Disney threw something in there about her background being 'murky but "royal"'. We'll see..

2.) Esmeralda was the very dark-skinned heroine in 'Hunchback', yet I don't see her on any of the Princess merchandise! True, she was not royalty, nor was she paired with royalty. But neither Cinderella nor Belle was of royal birth, nor was Mulan or her beau. Pocahontas was a true princess, yet I rarely see her ethnically-sharp features on the the backpacks, the bed sets, party merchandise, etc. You could argue Jasmine but, seriously, her features are more akin to a genetically-Jewish female with a light tan.

I really hope Disney starts to include ALL the lovely heroines in their marketing strategy, although I know full well that will simply drive up the price of the "original" princess merch to astronomical sums.

The Ladye Catte

Mar 16, 2009 10:58 AM

Guest :

I have been watching and waiting for all the latest news about OUR newest Disney princess moview for some time now and am VERY excited. I am a black mother of a black 3 and 1/2 year old princess and will be the first in line at premiere in our local theater in Kentucky with all of my multiracial friends and their children. With that being said, let me give my opinion about all of this "much ado about nothing": I have never been happier to see Disney take on creating a black princess and firmly believe Jazz Age New Orleans is the perfect backdrop for this story. Yes, Disney is going to attempt to create a story that is PC, but their main goal is to make a quality product that will make them MONEY!!!!

I am proud that Disney is making this movie and Tiana has an ethnic name, ethnic hair, and a pretty princess dress. From the eyes of a preschooler who is obsessed with all thing princess, I am happy she will have a movie that I will buy that has a princess that looks like her, with a magical story of love, strength, and dreams coming true. If that makes me sound anti-feminist, then sobeit. I want my child to enjoy her childhood while it lasts and worry about being PC later.

I grew up on Disney (my first movie was Snow White at age 5) and my daughter and I watch the old and new Disney princess movies together. The days she saw Ariel on stage, Belle gave her a kiss on the cheek, and she paraded around MGM studios ALL DAY in her Cinderella dress being called "a beautiful princess" at Disney World, brought joy to my heart because she was living her fairy tale. The Princess and the Frog could only add to her magic. Let us not take that away from our daughters, please.

Mar 17, 2009 2:36 AM

Guest :

Has anyone ever tried contacting Disney with their thoughts or comments? there certainly doens't seem any easy way to do that. It really irks me. I mean do they not care about their public? how do you let them know your thoughts, ideas, suggestions, complaints? Don't they want people's input. I would think so. Because...

For years I have thought that Disney has neglected a few things and wanted to share that with them: 1)2D animation 2)retelling stories 3)the continent of Africa and Africans. Correct me if I'm wrong but it occured to me that there wasn't any black heros or heroines in Disney animation! When this occured to me I was quite shocked. I thought okay, they've done Native Americans, the Middle-East, China, the Emperor's new groove was in South America, Jungle book for India. And then I realized oh, there are some African movies, but not one African person in them: Lion King, Tarzan. This really surprised and bothered me. It almost seemed they were avoiding it purposely (just in case your wondering, I'm white).

I thought, Disney really has an opportunity to play a part in uniting the world and creating interest in different cultures and peoples and exposing children to stories from all over the world. All countries and continents probably have their tales and fairy tales. When I thought of Africa I thought there couldn't be a more perfect mine of material to create an awesome animated film, with an African Princess, for example who against all odds does great things for her land and people, or something. Africa is a land full of stories and storytellers.

So while I was very excited when I saw that Disney was returning to 2D, doing a classic tale, and even having a black heroine (in essence exactly what I hoped they would do!) I must say I would have preferred the tale to be an African tale set in AFrica with an African prince. I think its a bit odd that the prince is going to be white. Just because he could be black. The white prince thing has been done and redone, why not something new, and it makes perfect sense. I'm not in any way against interracial relations, but nor am I against same race ones! My son also enjoys these movies and likes to pretend to be princes, so why not also have a black hero to go with the black heroine.

Anyway, I think Disney's future should involve continuing with 2D and retelling tales from all over the world. I think they would have ideas to last a long time.

Mar 23, 2009 12:18 PM

Guest :

Im a 16 year old black girl with a white boyfriend. I don't see a reason for Disney choosing a black guy instead of a white one. There are plenty of interracial couples (me for example) who has been waiting to see a movie like this to come since "Something new", which isn't a cartoon but you get the point. I like the idea of mixing two people from didn't backgrounds together. I can't wait to see a kiss from those two. Though I wish that the Prince was a bit cuter though...I guess you can't have it all.

Mar 26, 2009 9:31 AM

Guest :

Well Disney is a white company with white people running it, how are they supposed to discern what might be considered insulting to another race. I think that the problem arises from the era that the story is placed not the interracial aspect. For those of you who are ignorant to the time; look up Black Wall Street, Scottsborough Boys, Lynchings, Emitt Till and others. To pretend that America was or is a race friendly place is to ask too much of your audience. My wife's grandfather was killed by the Klan her grandmother was then run off of their property by the same. These things happened they weren't the products of someone's imagination. To pretend that things were that good between the races dishonors the lives of all of those that were lost.

Why couldn't they have done a story about a Tuskgee Airman? Or about Ancient Egypt? Hannibal? Piye or Taharqa both of whom were Nubian Kings of Egypt? Africa had centuries of trade with the east before the European arrived, there was the universities of Timbuktu and a wealth of folklore that could have been harnessed. Moses and his wife were Africans.

So why is it so hard for a company as talented as Disney's to actually use the material I listed above? Box Office returns. If there are two African leads the cartoon like many movies is labled a 'black' movie, so there is the introduction of the white male hero. He is actually there to save Disney's investment in the project.

For your lack in faith of the American audience and your inability to respect the aspects of American History I will have to pass on the Frog Princess.

Apr 8, 2009 1:45 PM

Guest :

Below is a casting call for the Imagination Movers and it brings to mind the agenda of Disney and subsequently the participation of every member of the Mover's production in a racially bias agenda.

--------------------
Imagination Movers wants you to work with us on Thursday April 9th in New Orleans.

This is a paid job ($118 per day).

If you fit the description below and want to work on the television series Imagination Movers please email Pepper at P***********@*****com (YOU MUST INCLUDE A PICTURE AND YOUR AVAILABILITY).

If you dont fit the descriptions listed below but you know someone who does please forward this information to them so they can work on this fun project.

Please reply asap. Thank you and I look forward to working with you soon.

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:

ONE ETHNIC MALE (AFRICAN AMERICAN/HISPANIC/ASIAN/LATINO, ETC) ANY AGE BUT YOU MUST BE ABLE TO HAM IT UP ON FILM (BE REALLY SILLY/CHUCKLE, ETC)

ONE ETHNIC WOMAN (AFRICAN AMERICAN/HISPANIC/ASIAN/LATINO, ETC) ANY AGE BUT YOU MUST BE ABLE TO HAM IT UP ON FILM (BE REALLY SILLY/CHUCKLE, ETC)

ONE ETHNIC BABY AND THE BABIES MOTHER (AFRICAN AMERICAN/HISPANIC/ASIAN/LATINO, ETC) THE BABY NEEDS TO BE 12 MONTHS OLD OR YOUNGER AND CAN BE ANY GENDER. THE MOTHER CAN BE ANY AGE.

Again, if you meet the description of a character listed above please email a picture and your interest/availability to Pepper ar P***********@*****com.

PLEASE DO THIS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THANK YOU.

Pepper
-----------------------

They are obviously trying to promote racial harmony by representing minorities in their shows however their methods show the true governing attitude behind it. They are offering employment to any man, woman or child to the exclusion of one racial type. This makes one wonder how 'ethnic' looking a person has to be. Can they be mixed or of some eastern European descent so long as they don't appear to be too anglo? Would a Swede or Ukrainian do as well as an Inuit or Colombian? Why are they lumping all non-caucasians together and adopting the attitude that one is basically the same as the other?

There it is.

Apr 12, 2009 9:16 PM

Guest :

Chichi:
It seems that a lot of people don't understand what the uproar is about with this movie. Quite a number of you are stating that race shouldn't be important, and why should it matter if the prince is white or non black--it's all about being equal and harmonious right? In fact you believe the people that are complaining about a white prince are the real racists, because they wouldn't complain in the first place. Wrong. Race is important.Why is it that down the line of the Disney princesses (excluding Pocohontas) that their costars or counterparts were of the same race? Why all of a sudden when it comes to the black princess that Disney wants to change it up? It would makes sense to follow the Disney formula or blue print. I tell you why they changed the scheme of things because Disney wanted to send a message. You know what that message is? It is not practical for a black woman and black man relationship to exist. It is not the norm; therefore, a black woman would have to look elsewhere for love for her prince. In addition it is also saying that a black man could never be a prince or atleast a prince to a black woman. Yes we love interracial relationships, but why is it that the first black princess has to compromise herself to find love. It would make more sense for a white princess to have an interracial relationship first since we've already seen her have her white prince. Yes I am glad that Disney thought to have a black princess, but I am certainly not thankful. If they're going to have a black princess they should present it in the right way. Also just like how I want my daughter to be able to identify with a princess, I want the same for my son. You mean to tell me that as a young black man that he can't have someone to identify with and that he can't be a prince. Mulan didn't have this much controversy because the people that put that project together were knowledgeable about the history, and presented the story in a way that was uplifting to the asian community; however, with this project the people behind it don't seem to have the same vigiliance. From the start there have been many problems as if they just decided to do the movie without doing their homework and it shows.It is very unfortunate because I have grown up watching Disney movies and looked forward to the fruitation of finally having a black princess, but I will not support this movie because of the damaging message that it is sending. There are beautiful black relationships.

Apr 13, 2009 11:12 PM

Guest :

HONESTLY PEOPLE!! Can we please calm down about this! I've realized that no matter what Disney does SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE will find it offensive. First off, black people complained that there were no black Disney princesses. Disney FINALLY creates one and she's not good enough. (Big surprise there) Granted, they started her off as a chambermaid, but did they not change the story and make her a princess? Give them a little credit, geez. Second, people complained that she wasn't "black enough." Now what would everyone have said if they would've created a stereotypical black princess? A lot more hell would have been raised, that's for sure! Should she speak in ebonics? My gracious! I've heard several complaints about the little buck-toothed firefly in the preview. Apparently, that's stereotyping black people too. If you want to compare yourself or blacks to the character and how he looks and speaks, that's all you--just like some people think we came from monkeys. If they want to believe that about themselves, that's their prerogative. I see no similarities between myself or any of my family members to a backwoods firefly so I take no offense. And what's the big deal with the Prince in the story not being black? How many Disney princes do people actually pay attention to? Do you see little boys running around in Prince Eric or Aladdin costumes at Halloween? Negative. Pocahontas was with a John Smith, heck, Belle was with a beast before he changed over! And does one even know what race Snow White's Knight in Shining Armor was? NO! All we saw was fair skin, so he must be white. So it all boils down to race, again and again. PLEASE just enjoy the movie for what it's worth. You're never going to be satisfied because Disney can't satisfy everyone! As previously stated, SOMEONE--SOMEWHERE is going to be offended by something in this movie and you know what? SO FRIKKIN WHAT! GET OVER IT AND GET SOME THICK SKIN! Better yet, for all those who have such a problem with this movie, you write the script and draw the prototypes for this so called "Perfect Black Disney Princess" that just doesn't exist. If you're not going to take the time and effort, then please for the rest of us, who are actually excited about the movie, stop the useless complaints and movie bashing.

Apr 13, 2009 11:13 PM

Guest :

Apr 24, 2009 3:25 PM

Guest :

Please if I want to voice my opinion I can, maybe you should grow thick skin. It's so obvious why people are upset about this film.

Apr 30, 2009 5:27 PM

Guest :

lol. Of course the Prince HAD to be white.
*rolls eyes*
FAIL.

May 9, 2009 7:07 PM

Guest :

I am glad there is finally a black princess to add to the collection. I am happy for my friends little daughters who are white and black 8 and under who love princess, and am happy that this movie is coming out while they are young and building positive images of themselves. I can't wait to buy this for them when it comes out on DVD to add to their home movies, maybe even go see it with them. I think that this movie in regards to a black princess and a white prince has some good qualities and bad. I think the interacial relationship is a positive thing as my friend's kids are white and black (and for any kid or adult, regardless if you have any relation to being white or black yourself) But I also do think they should make a second black princess where the prince is black, as that is a nice image for boys, and young girls who have both parents black.You can have more than one black princess, and I think the idea about a black prince and white princess is good too, especially with modern times like Obama and the fact that his dad was black and his mom was white. I am glad the story takes place in the states. I'm not sure, but I think that this would mean that this is the first American princess? Not sure. Anyways I think it sounds cool.

May 13, 2009 11:35 AM

Guest :

I don't have any doubt that this movie might get to be a Disney classic however, I beleive that the story should've taken place where there would be actual african american princess' like in Africa. I mean,Disney is known to take classic stories and turn them into great family movies, so why not take a story from Africa and make it into a movie? Also- i'm probably going to sound real bitchy or something right now but- when will there be a hispanic princess? Like one from Spain? I love Disney movies i've been watching them since I was a little girl! The other princess were all charming and beautiful and hopefully this princess Tiana will be too. Now all we need is a beautiful Spaniard princess to complete the circle of race. Atleast that's what I think. O hope this movie really does well, I know i'm going to go and see it, it looks interesting and cute.

May 19, 2009 6:53 PM

Guest :

Blow me away with a good story that's on par with classic Disney movies. Then I'll make a judgement call. Right now, I could care less.

May 29, 2009 6:33 AM

Guest :

I wish you would all just stop defending this movie, because of its lack of imagination! It's so predictable. A frog shows up claiming to be a prince, talks the girl into kissing him, and she turns into a frog? Come on. How many times have we seen that? I also dislike the fact that it is set in a real life setting, when really the greatest films have been those we've never seen or heard of before. It just doesn't have the magic when there's no mystery. A setting in Africa I believe would be breathtaking and would give them lots of stuff to work with, like the South American setting for UP which looks awesome. I do admit that the animation does look beautiful and a singing alligator is beast. I also think it's about time we started acknowledging african american culture because of how important it us to us and our world. I want to work for Disney someday, so I try to give it my full support, but I can't do that when I'm dissapointed, which obviously I am. Well, good luck, Disney. Even though it looks like a flop, I'll still show up. Hopefully, they can change my mind, because I'm entirely sceptical for now. signing off.

Jun 2, 2009 1:11 PM

Guest :

Seriously?! The prince..is a white man? REALLY!!!! So you're saying a black man can't rescue a black woman? Anyhoot, every one has made some good points. Kudos to Disney for trying to produce an animated fairy tale with an African American princess. Where they went wrong... the white prince, and the voodoo priest. One guest suggested that Disney did more research on African foklore, I agree. Perhaps reaching out to African American writers and artists could of help Disney write and produce a more realistic or at least politcally correct fairy tale. I mean what? the producers did not think to ask Maya Angelou, Spike Lee, Toni Morrison, Janis Spivey Gilchrist, Virginia Hamilton? Perhaps if they had a panel with African American writers and historians, the Princess and The Frog would have been more "palatable" to the public. Besides, when you think of Disney's works, all their villians are drawn dark, shadowy and long, and in their earlier films, it is so obvious when a character is supposed to be "Black" i.e. the crows in Dumbo. The hyenas in Lion King were SO STEREOTYPICAL!, however Whoopi Goldberg and Cheech Marin did an excellent job making you laugh that you forgot about the stereotypes. However I was'nt to please with Rafiki, once again Robert Guillaum, was excellent. SOOO...to make a long story short. American Cinema is still a long way from getting it "right" when it comes to portaying African Americans. (Pls. excuse any typos ;-) )

Jun 5, 2009 3:44 AM

Guest :

Disney's finally doing a movie with a "black" princess. It might already be out but with two young children I don't pay much attention to movies until they're released on DVD. My critisicm isn't concerning the movie, as I have yet to see it. My complaint revolve around some of what I have heard other people say about it.

To my amazement Disney isn't only introducing a "black" princess, it is being completely revolutionary and is introducing its first inter-racial relationship! I can not tell you how exciting I thought that was when I found out. However my joy was rapidly squashed when I began to read some of the commentary. And I must say, the negative feed back I read was not the gripes I would have expected.

I thought people might go totally haywire because there was a mixing of races. As far as America has come as a nation and as much progress has been made in race relations this issue is still one that is of concern to many Americans. While there are many more inter-racial couples than ever before in my country's history we still have a long way to go as far as mixed marriages are concerned. In high school I knew plenty of young girls, of both races (black and white, I think there were all of four asians in our school, one east indian, and no latinos) who even at the ages of 14-17 felt that white should marry white, and black should marry black.

Regardless of how you my friends may think, I hope that you have enough tolerance to be accepting that not everyone feels this way and does not choose to follow the like to like philosophy when searching out a life long companion.

To me, people are people, but perhaps I am the misguided product of an inter-racial relationship being the "mulatto" daughter of a black man and a white woman. I proudly continue that misguidedness for this "mulatto" woman has married a white man and given birth to two "quadroon" children.

Don't you love those words? Mulatto. Quadroon. There's even the term Octaroon and if either of my daughters marries a white man then that will technically be my grandchildren from that union's "racial" designation! It's amazing how the USA measures "blackness" like it is some sort of taint.

But the commentary wasn't slaming inter-racial relationships in the classic sense. Much to my surprise there were many a cry that Disney was doing a huge disservice to the "black" community. Their argument was that Disney was showing that "black" love couldn't work, or that "black" love wasn't important.

M

Jun 5, 2009 9:59 AM

Guest :

wow. wow. wow. Really, they're calling it racist that white men are writing a story about black people? Really? Oh my goodness, I am fifteen years old and I really don't understand why everything is considered racist! I thought we were past this. No, I don't think it's a good story line and I don't like the setting, I think Disney has some rethinking to do but I don't consider it racist. What is wrong with people these days!? Hello, it's the 21st century! Get over yourselves, I don't care what color you are!

Jul 10, 2009 10:33 AM

Guest :

For all those blacks complaining, start your own damn movie company. Then you can make them how you want.

Jul 17, 2009 7:43 AM

Guest :

seriously guys! i love the old disney movies where they would sing songs and dance around! its just the not the same anymore!! so i'm super excited to find out they are brinigng this movie out and its going to have the same old format like before! also i think all of those racist remarks in the article is way blown out of the water...Maddy they say might sound like a slave's name but there a white girl name Maddy on the suite life of zack and cody!! so whats wrong if the prince happens to be white? hes also a frog! what would happen if the prince was black and a frog..i can't imagine what everybody would say about that...lets not also forget about the other races that disney has done..pochaontas..for heaven's sake they called the john smith and them white savages lol..

i think everybody just need to calm down and enjoy this movie!

Jul 18, 2009 7:09 PM

Guest :

A VERY RACIST movie, this is. Why does the princess get turned into an ugly frog? What, blacks can't aspire to be black, they have to be frogs?

What message is that sending to black girls, to be a frog? Wow. If you white people can't see the racism in this movie, then you're either ignorant or a denier.

Jul 24, 2009 1:11 PM

Guest :

This movie is set in New Orleans in the Jazz Age. Tiana speaks like an average American “black” girl would, and the Prince has a French accent. Also, if it helps, because of the demographic history of NO, there is no way to tell whether or not Tiana is even completely African-American, and the Prince is from an imaginary country called Maldonia. She could be what was formerly referred to as mulatto (which was on the US Census as a category until 1930) or any of the possible mixes and derivations of the various races which have inhabited NO in the history of America- French, Spanish, English, African, etc. The point is, it does not matter, race or otherwise. Disney is finally making a movie with a black princess, and the story line occurs in one of the most African-influenced and culturally diverse cities in America, New Orleans. Please watch the teaser/trailer to see what I’m talking about.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmlZhrmMAhc&annotation_id=annotation_7 28147&feature=iv

Also, note that Disney went to great lengths to make sure the film would not be viewed as racially insensitive in any way. Tiana’s name was changed from the original Maddy and her job was changed from a maid to a waitress, among other things. Please try to remain open minded. This will be a beautiful movie and Disney deserves credit where credit is due.

Jul 26, 2009 10:09 PM

Guest :

2 the people who think this is a raceist movie or say it looks down on the black community 1st of all how much do u know about it ive heard that the prince is black and that alot of things have been changed since they 1st realised the news, oh and 2 the person above me who commented july 18 how is a person supposed 2 aspire 2 b a frog seriosly!its not like the characters willingly wanted 2 b a frog and i think the idea is verry cute and unique and would b a great comback 4 disney. so watch the movie b4 u complain about all this stupid crap just c what its like.ohh and find a more important cause 2 complain about its a childrens movie comeon.

Jul 29, 2009 7:27 AM

Guest :

I am a african american 19 yr old women. Many of my friends would describe me as a disney freak. I love the classic disney movies and still cry when I see them. I am very excited to see the movie with a african american princess but I would have perferred her to be with a african american prince. All disney princesses except pocahontas (which was based on history ( she isnt really even considered a princess she is never advertised with the other princesses)) fell in love with the same ancestry. Why cant Tiana? It is hard to find a happy african american couple on tv, Tiana and a african american prince would have been a good example. I think that it would have been better to use African stories (folktales) to introduce an african acestry princess. Overall I am still a Disney freak and I cant wait till the movie but I really hopes Disney makes the prince african american

Aug 4, 2009 6:27 AM

Guest :

Tiana turns into a frog, Mulan cross dresses, and Pocahantus "betrays" her tribe to save the man she loves and Snow White eats and apple and for all intents and purposes snuffs it.

Mulan is made to feel like her only purpose in life is to marry failing that she's something the should be swept under the family carpet, Cinderella is a maid for her Evil stepsisters who abuse and wreck all her attempts at self improvement and Snow White is fed a poison by a jealous aunt.

Really, I don't see how becomming a frog is all that bad. Every princess has some unpleasant situation to deal with. And each is unique and frankly if she didn't turn into a frog it would amount to girl finds frog, kisses frog, marries prince end of story. Not great viewing even by kid standards.

And if that's still not enough for you, you have to remember that it was the "white prince" who was turned into a frog and her transformation was an accident there was no real malice made directly towards her.

Races are varied, it's a fact of life, if you want to be equal stop demanding special treatment.

Aug 15, 2009 10:09 AM

Guest :

Okay, so after I read the following, I found my self quite disappointed in my own kind. Yes, i'm African- American. In saying that, I think as an African-American in this day and age, we like to throw the 'racist' card around a little too much. Yes, racism still exists and it will continue to exist as long as we have different races, but in my opinion, i think this was a great change for Disney. The funny part is, for years African-Americans have been wanting an African-American princess and now that they have given us one, we complain. Why can't we be happy about it. I know I am... I love Disney, and will continue to support them, weather the princess' are black or white. And the prince being white. What does it matter. Love knows no color. They say why does he have to be white? The bigger question is Why does he have to be black?" The fact is, he doesn't. He only needs two eyes, a nose, one mouth, two ears... you get my point. You are free the see the movie or not. It's up to you but I know i will, and most likely enjoy it.

Aug 25, 2009 1:42 PM

Guest :

okay people....do you honestly think that when little girls, white or black, watch this movie that they are thinking about the setting, colour of skin, historically correct information or interracial relationships? Disney Princess movies are about the Princess, her beauty and the love she eventually has for the Prince, not the details that I hear people talking about. I have a 7 year old daughter and not once has she ever said to me during a Disney Princess movie "Mommy, is that historically correct?".
Once again, Disney tries to put out a movie of fun and little girl fatasy and people have to find something wrong with it. I would love to be a fly on the wall when little black girls in America want to see this movie and they are told "no" because it's not politically or historically correct....or are you going to be a Hypocrite and let them see it and complain about it silently?
Whatever, some people have nothing better to do with their lives than spoil waht fantasy is left out there, get over yourselves and see it for what it is.....a fairy tale made for little girls who want to dress up like a princess and feel good about it!

Aug 29, 2009 6:23 PM

Guest :

THERE WAS A PRINCE of colour
like hello remember bueaty and the beast like duhhh. I love that film! x

Aug 29, 2009 6:25 PM

Guest :

im a black british girl
i can't wait for the film. i think it's wonderful. Well done Disey :D me and my sister can't wait to see it and that prince sure does look handsome:P

Aug 30, 2009 8:49 PM

Guest :

I'm a 17 year old Jamaican-American girl (yes I'm 'black'). I think that the people who are crying out racism, are racist themselves (yes even if the people shouting are black). Also I bet if the princess was white, people would complain that Disney didn't come out with a black princess so it's not "to-little-to-late". One more thing I believe the only way to get over racism is to forget about it completely. As for the prince being white, soooooooo what, I like boys of every race (hey cute is cute and sexy is sexy, no matter what the race).

Sep 18, 2009 7:38 PM

Guest :

Okay, first of all, I'm thirteen, and I am really excited to see this movie! And I think its great that they're making an African American princes. I mean I haven't even seen a Disney Princess who wasn't white since Princess Jasmine in "Alladin". I also love the idea of the movie being set in 1920's Louisiana, I think that's a great twist on a classic fairy-tale. And I don't get the big commotion about the white prince, I think the fact that there's and interracial couple is great. I think it's great that there's a Disney movie that shows us two people of different heritage backgrounds fall in love. I think that's a great example to show the kids that love really has no specific color. I have no doubt that this will be one of the greatest Disney movies. Can't wait till it's in theaters!

Sep 23, 2009 8:52 AM

Guest :

I am a black woman with four daughters and two granddaughters.i have been waitng since i was a little girl to hold a black princess doll in my hand.i cant wait for this movie to come out.i remember one holloween my daughter was bell and she was told by another little girl in class that bell was not black.i new this would happen but i brought the costume anyway.now my granddaughters can dress like the frog princess.

Sep 25, 2009 7:45 PM

Guest :

did anybody read the article? how about doing some more research. disney would never make a movie that demeans african americans. the previews that i have seen for the movie have not shown anything demeaning. the whole chamber maid thing was probably just a rumor that started spreading and people completely blew it out of proportion. i personally think it's dumb to get so uptight about something like this. its just a movie and its not like its going to hurt anybody. there are worse problems out there than a dumb disney movie. get a grip people.

Sep 25, 2009 9:12 PM

Guest :

This is, by far, the most ridiculous article I have ever read. First
of all, when I was a little girl I never thought about race even
being a factor. Kids don't pay attention to those things. We start
recognizing these things only when adults point them out to us.
Racism is a learned trait, not something we are instictively born
with. And after thinking back to the Disney movies I have seen if we
really want to break it down into ethnicity, my all time favorite
princess was Jasmine. She was Arabian. She married an Arabian.

So lets go through the disney princesses shall we?
1. Ariel~ Does a mermaid even have an ethnicity???
She lives underwater.
(The Little Mermaid)

2. Jasmine~ Arabian princess. Marries an Arabian peasant...
(Aladdin)

3. Belle~ French, falls in love with a beast, who then changes to a
prince.
(The Beauty and the Beast)

4. Snow White~ Unclear. Servant to the house. I would assume some
sort of European decent. Marries a prince.
(Snow White)

5. Cinderella~ I think it's safe to say she is English. Also a
servant of the house. A maid. Marries a prince.
(Cinderella)

6. Mulan~ Chinese. And a woman, who had little rights in this
culture. She marries a warrior. Who is also Chinese. Earns honor for
her family.
(Mulan)

7. Pocahontus~Native American. Falls in love with a white man. Breaks
the barrier between her people and the white man.
(Pocahontus)

8.Esmeralda~ Probably of some sort of Romanian descent. She too,
falls in love with a French guard. Also treats Quasimodo with respect
and equality.

I think if you look at the broad scheme of things Disney touches on
the most important topic of all. Love is blind. It comes in all
different shapes and sizes, classes and rankings in society. They
show that you can defy the limits that others put on you and love is
worth fighting for. So what does it matter the race of the prince??
Are we against inter-racial relationships? I think it is important
for kids to get the message that it doesn't matter what color of skin
a person has, but what is inside that really matters. I sincerely hope
that kids of all races and classes go to see this movie regardless of
something as trivial as this. Because the real message is with love,
all is possible.

Oct 1, 2009 5:23 PM

Guest :

The outcry to this movie is ridiculous.
Yeah. I'm white.
yeah, I can see how someone could interpret some of the things in this movie as racist.
But really? It's a CARTOON.
Are people really so stupid that they have to cry and shout racism over THIS?
God dammit people.
I understand that racism is still alive and well. I really do. I have to hear it all the time from parts of my family. It's frustrating. But it's even more frustrating that I have to hear people over exaggerating just because characters in a CARTOON are of a different color.
OH NO. THAT WHITE CHARACTER CAN'T DANCE WELL IN THAT MOVIE.
RACIST! NOT ALL WHITE PEOPLE ARE BAD DANCERS!
Come on now. That's just stupid. The stuff they're pointing out is just as stupid as that.
Seriously folks, the longer we sweat the small stuff, the longer this crap will last.

Oct 1, 2009 7:38 PM

Guest :

I think this is a big overreaction. Although I haven't actually seen the movie, I think there's nothing wrong with the black girl falling in love with the white guy. Because why should it be that all the black people in movies have to fall in love with another black person? Is it like taboo that they should fall in love with someone of a different race?? Shock, horror! And about her being a slave, what's wrong with that? Cinderella was a slave! Anastasia was a slave (I think... I haven't seen it since I was 6)! I think it's actually racist that people are getting so worked up about these little things... Especially the name Maddy. What should she be called then? Something undeniably caucasian? Well that's just ridiculous. Disney should be able to make an un-racist movie about a black princess and not have to worry about over-PC people making a huge deal out of what is just normal. The movie's not racist at all, and it makes me angry when people spoil stuff like this movie just because they can't handle the real world.

Oct 3, 2009 6:52 PM

Guest :

As a fifteen year-old black girl, the prospect of this film was very exciting to me. For the first time, a four year-old black girl can go to the movies and see an image of a beautiful girl on the screen, that looks like her. However, it is highly disappointing that that image will only be portrayed for less than half of the movie. My issue with the film is not that the girl turns into a frog, but that it's not her image on the screen for a significant part of the movie. There are so many other fairytales that could have been chosen to introduce the first black princess to the Disney collection. That's my only problem with the film.

Oct 5, 2009 2:33 PM

Guest :

People can be so stupid. I'm a proud African-American but so tired of hearing about the "race card". THIS is why there aren't MORE black princesses/princes/protagonists in general. Every time somebody tries to weave a decent tale about a different race, that race goes berserk and starts calling EVERYBODY a racist. Disney is NOT racist. I adore their cartoons and greatly appreciate their endorsement of interracial relationships. It's SICK that people can condemn their spirit. I love the name Maddy, too, and wish desperately they hadn't decided to change it (I have a niece named Madeline - though we call her Maddel). I so look forward to this movie and really hope the idiots out there trying to cause trouble for it will shut up long enough for Disney to realize this is a huge (and profitable) idea. Instead of causing PROBLEMS for them, we should be saying: "see how much we loved this film? MAKE MORE!"

Oct 21, 2009 8:12 AM

Guest :

First off, Daniels is from one of the worst black stations that belittles black people everyday, so your opinion does not count! Get away and write more ignorant storylines for BET! Second, I love the idea of a black princess, yes its late but its here. We live in White America, so complaining now is way too late! Now, Maddy is not a slave, heifer, my daughter's name is Madison and I call her Maddie. Go crawl under a rock with your whining!

Oct 21, 2009 7:27 PM

Guest :

I find the racism controversy about this movie Pathetic, to stop racism one way could be to stop bringing it up. It starting to become a frickin witch hunt. The concept of stereiotyping is getting ridicoulous because
just because a character might be portrayed in a certain way doesn't mean they are saying all ppl of that type are that way, but oviously there are some, and that's that type of character. Gosh, the bad white lady in sleeping beuty was a witch, so was the bad queen in snow white, there both white but that doesn't mean white ppl are witches. Anyway we are all related, there really isn't anything such as race, there is only one race of humans! (It's well..humans..duh).

Oct 23, 2009 7:53 AM

Guest :

I'm offended that Disney does not have any blind princesses in a wheelchair. What is wrong with them? And why are they singling out the Eskimos too? Where's the representation for the Eskimos? And the fact that they haven't done any stories about any gay Australian aboriginal albino princesses to me screams the fact that they are nothing but mean racist homophobes.

I hate the society we have created with all of our political correctness. Is this really where we wanted to be? No one seems able to live and let live without condemning others for being racist or unfair in some way, and taking offense when none was intended. In all of our efforts to be blind to race we are more aware of it and contentious about it than ever.

Oct 26, 2009 9:51 AM

Guest :

One doesn't have to be against inter-racial relationships to desire a black prince. I thought Disney should of had a black prince, but, its obvious, its a business decision. Disney stands to lose millions of white audience members if they cast a "true" black love story. Everyone needs someone to relate to, unfortunately, blacks only get 50%. So, the alternative - inter-racial. Is it racist?? That's subjective. More capitalist than racist in my opinion. Imagine if Disney would of had a blonde princess with a dark skin prince. LOL - the uproar. Wake up people!!!

Nov 3, 2009 6:29 AM

Guest :

I've lived in Louisiana most of my life, and I have to say that I am so excited about this movie! Too often movies are made about New Orleans or the bayous in Louisiana that are filled to the brim with fake accents and hideous stereotypes. Judging by the previews I have seen of the Princess and the Frog, I think Disney has found a great balance between acknowledging the rich culture of Louisiana and falling prey to stereotypes. I understand it's a sensitive situation when you are creating a role model for young girls, but, unfortunately, you can't change history. What you can do, however, is focus on how disney is taking Tiana on a journey that will allow her to follow her dreams, which is what is really important when dealing with a role model for young girls. As for the voodoo thing, voodoo is very much alive in New Orleans. It is a religion, yes, but I think disney avoids demeaning it as a religion by having the "good" voodoo priestess to balance out the villain. The practice of voodoo is a very strong part of the history of New Orleans culture, and I am glad that disney included it. Lastly, I just want to give a shout out to the actress playing Tiana. Her accent is actually southern, not just country, which seems to be the "southern" accent generally depicted in movies.

Nov 4, 2009 6:33 AM

Guest :

I am so upset over the controversy that is being made over this film. even if she is a chambermaid at some point, so were many other princesses. and why does that make it so magical? because it shows that even if you are coming from the bottom, you can end up on top in your situation. and about the name "maddy" isnt that the name of one of the main characters in "the suite life"? it is a very common name. people are just looking for things to fuss about. i am half puerto rican/white and i have some black relatives. i live in the sticks. i can relate to stereotypes because i live in a mostly white community. i do not think that this movie is being racist. and so what if she ends up with a white guy, that does happen in the real world. my mom is polish nd my dad is 100% puerto rican. this is a diverse contry and they should not be critisized for showing things that actually occur such as biracial relationships. i think that it is single minded to say that she shouldnt be shown with a white prince. shouldnt this show that love knows no boundaries? that our country as a whole is getting over the "youre black, youre white" type labels? we are americans. end of the story. we have a diverse background and we all know, love, and trust disney to show the history in the best and most magical way possible. i cant wait to see this movie. i am an aspiring animator and the concept art is breath taking :)