Questionable Messages In Disney Movies–31 Fans Share Their Honest Critiques

Disney movies are known for conveying powerful, timeless messages that often exceed the fantasy worlds in which they are set. These films, particularly the animated ones, are primarily aimed at younger audiences who are highly impressionable.

Therefore, it is vital for the creators to carefully consider how the characters' actions and their consequences will be interpreted. While these movies are beloved worldwide for their uplifting themes, as we grow older and review them with a more critical eye, it becomes clear that not all the messages are as wholesome as we once thought.

Recently, Reddit users have been calling out Disney films, stating that despite their magical storytelling, they also promote some questionable themes. Many of these critiques focus on elements that are not so obvious to children due to their different reasoning but certainly raise concerns when viewed from an adult perspective.

Though Disney has moved away from certain outdated tropes, like the idea of falling in love at first sight, other themes, characters, and storylines continue to spark confusion and debate among viewers. We've compiled some of these critiques below, including input from the individual who started the discussion thread.

Take a look and let us know your perspective on this matter.

"I love the movie, but Mrs. Doubtfire"

"The dad is unhinged for no reason other than to play the pity party. He throws a huge birthday bash that gets the cops called, causes property damage, and breaks a boundary with his wife.

Apparently, he has a history of doing that, so his wife is rightfully fed up with all of it AND having to clean up the mess and keep it together financially (because he quit another job due to his "morals"). Then he gets upset when he finds out his wife is completely serious about divorcing him.

He becomes more upset when he doesn't get joint custody (even though at the time, he had no job or decent place to live). He is motivated to get a place but doesn't bother cleaning it up for his children (you could argue the Chinese dinner scene is right after moving, but it is still messy by the time the social worker comes).

He concocts an absolutely insane scheme of dressing up as a woman and lying to get close to them, then sabotaging her dates with a nice man so he... can... win her back?? Exact revenge?

Meanwhile, the wife is trying to keep it together and take care of her kids (who are turned against her because Dad is so fun and cool while she is the rule enforcer). SHE buys the clothes.

SHE buys the food and entertainment. SHE sets the school expectations, but she is labeled a b***h for parenting??

For finding a guy who has his life together like an adult?? Then the kids find out and are on Dad's side because "Dad is so fun and he does this insane stuff because he loves us!!!"

But at no point does anyone say to him, "Why don't you... I don't know... work on your issues and clean your damn place??? Go to work and take on some responsibility beyond partying?"

He does get promoted (by luck) and gets caught. The judge rightfully condemns him.

Dude is crazy. He was a step away from harming those kids and himself - that whole speech in the courtroom screams, "I am mentally unstable."

The mom feels bad (yeah, she made rude comments out of anger, but she DID HER PARENTING RIGHT) and gives him what he wants.

Moral of the story: act unhinged towards everyone, and everyone will understand that you are right to be unhinged and will give you stuff."

Reddit

"Any movie which pushes marrying someone you just met"

Reddit

"I have a running joke with my wife that Aladdin is about a young man who lies to and gaslights a woman"

"But she doesn't care because he has a cool car"

Reddit

The Impact of Storytelling on Children

Pediatric psychologist Dr. David Elkind emphasizes that storytelling in children's media plays a crucial role in their emotional and social development. Disney movies, while entertaining, often present complex moral dilemmas that can confuse young viewers.

He discusses how children may internalize messages about sacrifice, love, and bravery without fully understanding the consequences depicted. Elkind suggests that parents should engage in discussions after watching these films, helping kids to process the narratives critically.

"All Disney heroes had American accents and villains had foreign accents"

"Not sure if it still holds, but for the longest time, all Disney heroes had American accents and villains had foreign accents, even when they were from the same culture.

Remember kids - foreigners are scary."

Reddit

"No more hard work, you just have to be born special"

"Live Action Mulan: Be born special and just be better than everyone else by default. That's the only way you can succeed as a woman.

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but didn't the 2020 Mulan remake ruin the original message that a woman can be the same as a man with the same training by making her naturally gifted with Chi?"

Reddit

"For me it's The Little Mermaid. Change everything about yourself for a guy? No thanks."

Reddit

Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, points out that Disney movies often portray unrealistic romantic ideals. For example, the concept of 'love at first sight' can set unattainable expectations for relationships.

She recommends parents use these films as conversation starters about what healthy relationships look like, as well as the importance of communication and mutual respect. This proactive approach can help children develop a more balanced view of love and partnership.

"The Little Mermaid - an underage girl with body issues is trafficked by an older woman and objectified by an older man."

Reddit

"The Lion King is my favorite movie about running away from your life's problems until you are old enough to kill your uncle."

Reddit

Cinderella

"Poor woman with no hope in sight meets a rich man, spends part of an evening dancing with him, neither of them has any idea who the other person really is, but when he finds her again, they are instantly married. Just when the real story and character development could take place, that's the end, of course, happily ever after.

Boys: your goal is to be a wealthy provider, and then you'll be happy because you'll have a pretty woman...

Girls: find a rich, charming man and he will take care of you, and you'll be happy for the rest of your life.

And neither are going to do well in relationships if they internalize this message."

Reddit

Cultural Reflections and Stereotypes

Cultural expert Dr. Pasi Sahlberg discusses how Disney movies often reflect societal stereotypes, which can perpetuate biases in young audiences. For example, the portrayal of side characters and villains often leans towards negative racial or cultural stereotypes.

He argues that this can impact children's perceptions of diversity and inclusion. To counteract these messages, educators and parents should introduce children to a wider range of stories that celebrate different cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding.

Inside Out

"I'm going to make a very controversial pick and say "Inside Out". But with a heavy caveat.

Only in regards to boys/men. The emotions of women, when shown, are complex and deep.

The male counterparts were gag jokes and stereotypes."

Reddit

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

"They had to repeatedly assure people the message of The Hunchback of Notre Dame was not, "Be grateful for the pretty girl's friendship and step aside for your handsome friend, because that's clearly the best you can hope for.""

Reddit

Wish

"I believe this movie would have worked better if they had tried to convey the message, "Not every wish should be granted". Instead, they went with the message, "There are no bad wishes, only bad genies".

Reddit

Dr. Tara Brach, a psychologist and meditation teacher, emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness in storytelling. She notes that Disney's narratives often mask deeper emotional issues with humor or fantasy.

Encouraging children to identify their feelings while watching these films can promote emotional intelligence. Brach advocates for mindfulness practices that can help kids articulate their thoughts and feelings, transforming viewing time into an opportunity for personal growth.

"I'm not a fan of the end of Encanto, where the message seems to be forgive your narcissistic Abuela even though she made everyone miserable."

Reddit

"Though it was my favorite growing up, Sleeping Beauty should probably be on this list."

"Takeaway messages:

A) The gifts the fairies bestow upon infant Aurora are all superficial (until the last one). Being pretty > being smart, kind, healthy, etc.

B) It's a-okay for a dude to kiss an unconscious woman. In fact, it makes you a real man, a hero even."

Reddit

"Sleeping Beauty for making it seem like the princess’s only role is to be rescued by a prince, which can feel pretty outdated."

Reddit

The Role of Consequences in Disney Storylines

Dr. John Gottman, a renowned psychologist, highlights that Disney movies often simplify the consequences of characters' actions. For instance, many films end with a neat resolution, glossing over the complexities of real-life problems.

He suggests parents take this opportunity to discuss the importance of accountability and the long-term effects of decisions. By addressing these themes, adults can help children appreciate the nuances of morality and responsibility beyond the fairy tale endings.

"Does Rise of Skywalker count?"

"After Last Jedi set up a message of "It doesn't take being born special or being part of a certain bloodline to make a difference," Rise of Skywalker went, "LOL NEVERMIND, ONLY THE SUPER SPECIAL PEOPLE BORN INTO THE SUPER SPECIAL FAMILIES CAN BE COOL, AND PEOPLE WILL ONLY LISTEN TO THE FAMOUS CELEBRITIES IF YOU NEED HELP!!!"

God, what a sh**show of a movie."

Reddit

"A lot of them are bad, but I've always struggled with The Princess and the Frog"

"A lot of them are bad, but I've always struggled with The Princess and the Frog.... *Amazing* hardworking woman, so close to achieving her dreams, has to learn to....

Calm down on her badass work ethic to make room for a guy who hasn't worked a day in his life? I don't love it.

I *expect* the classics to be awful. It's more jarring when the main character is fully competent and prepared to make her dreams come true without a man."

Reddit

Pinocchio

"People think the message is "don’t lie," but Pinocchio is punished for lying when he’s actually telling the truth as he understood it. Meanwhile, people are luring children, then trafficking them as slaves after turning them into donkeys.

That guy doesn’t get punished, nor does the man who tries to abduct Pinocchio for his traveling puppet show. People won’t believe you, and the world is filled with criminals who will exploit you and get away with it.

That’s the message. Later, Pinocchio saves Geppetto from a fish, thereby proving his selflessness, and the blue fairy turns him real.

The message there is clear. The only way you’ll be rewarded is to obey your parents even if you have no clue how the world works, and don’t expect anyone to guide you, especially not a useless cricket."

Reddit

Financial educator Liz Weston points out another layer to consider in Disney narratives: the implications of wealth and materialism. Many Disney films feature characters who achieve happiness through wealth, often without exploring the hard work required to attain it.

Weston recommends using these films as a springboard for discussions about financial literacy, emphasizing the value of hard work, saving, and wise spending. Such conversations can equip children with essential life skills early on, fostering a balanced view of money.

"Not really a message, but Parent Trap was just creepy to me."

"A couple is married, and the wife has twins. Then they get divorced soon after the births.

Each gets custody of one child and moves far apart from the other. Not only do the girls have zero contact with their other parent, but they aren’t even told they have an identical twin sister."

Reddit

Wreck It Ralph and Wreck It Ralph 2

"Individually, the messages of Wreck It Ralph and Wreck It Ralph 2 are fine. Together, it's incoherent.

Why does Ralph have to learn to accept his position in life, but Vanellope gets to live her dream in a different game? The two movies have diametrically opposing messages, and it drives me insane."

Reddit

Raya and the Last Dragon

"Everyone's going for the classics; here's a more recent one: Raya and the Last Dragon. You should have faith and trust everyone, even the woman who stabbed you in the back and has shown repeatedly that she cannot be trusted.

Raya was apparently "you have to learn to trust others," even though the movie has her being betrayed over and over again."

Reddit

Discussing Difficult Themes

Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, stresses that while Disney films often carry uplifting messages, they also address darker themes like loss and sacrifice. However, these themes can sometimes be glossed over.

He suggests that parents actively discuss these elements with their children, framing them as part of life's journey. By integrating these conversations into viewing experiences, parents can help cultivate resilience and emotional strength in their children.

"Tinkerbell in Peter Pan, what a mean girl bully."

Reddit

Little Mermaid

"She left her family and her world and sacrificed too much for someone she didn't even know because he was handsome."

Reddit

"Beauty and the Beast. Stockholm Syndrome at its finest."

Reddit

Life coach Mel Robbins emphasizes the need for resilience in narratives. Many Disney films feature characters overcoming significant adversity, which can teach valuable lessons about perseverance.

Robbins advises parents to encourage children to reflect on these challenges and to think about how they would face similar situations. This practice can foster a growth mindset, teaching kids that setbacks are opportunities for learning and growth, not just obstacles.

"Wasn't Cars 2 the one where the disabled were the villains?"

"Yes, the "lemons" were demonized throughout the entire movie for using fossil fuel. Even though that's not their fault, that's just how their bodies work.

They didn't choose to be born (built?) as lemons."

Reddit

"Coco and Encanto tell you that your family will immediately and substantially change their negative behaviors if given logical information."

Reddit

"Hot take, but Encanto"

"People who are mistreating you are simply under pressure, misunderstood, and/or doing what they think is best for everyone. Redemption and forgiveness are always possible.

As someone who has lived for far too long around families like this, I can tell you that Abuela's character arc was completely unrealistic and unbelievable. If they replaced Abuela with Mother Gothel from Tangled, it would be such a better movie."

Reddit

Empowering Critical Thinking

Dr. Angela Duckworth, known for her research on grit, argues that critical thinking is essential when interpreting the messages in Disney films. She believes that while these stories can inspire, they can also mislead if taken at face value.

Duckworth suggests that parents and educators encourage children to ask questions about the plot and characters. This engagement not only fosters critical thinking skills but also allows children to form their own opinions, rather than passively absorbing the content.

Oliver and Company

"The best way to free yourself from money payments is not to learn how to handle money better but to kill your creditor. You just have to make it look circumstantial."

Reddit

Blank Check

"Taught me to spend all my money fast before the authorities take it back… the dumb and dumber philosophy."

Reddit

The Lion King

"Someone once pointed out that The Lion King is a very pro-monarchy authoritarian story, but in the original, the animation is so beautiful you can look past that. But in the remake, you’re forced to realize what the story is like."

Reddit

In a broader sense, educational expert Dr. Jay McTighe advocates for integrating media literacy into childhood education. Disney movies can be fantastic tools for teaching kids about narrative structure, character development, and ethical dilemmas.

He suggests parents collaborate with schools to create programs that help kids analyze media critically. By understanding the mechanics behind storytelling, children can become more discerning consumers of media, better equipped to navigate the complex messages they encounter.

Chicken Little

Reddit

While Disney movies are celebrated and memorable for their magic and charm, a deeper look reveals some alarming messages. Fans have highlighted themes that, though subtle, raise concerns.

By revisiting these films with a critical, adult perspective, we can appreciate the stories while acknowledging areas where they may fall short.

Building Healthier Patterns

As audiences grow older, the initial enchantment of Disney films often gives way to a more nuanced understanding of their messages. Experts like Dr. Eli Finkel and Dr. Alexandra Solomon stress the importance of discussing these narratives with children to cultivate emotional intelligence and resilience. By engaging in conversations about the complexities of love, responsibility, and cultural representation, parents can turn movie nights into valuable learning experiences.

Ultimately, fostering critical thinking and media literacy allows children to appreciate these beloved stories while navigating the messages they convey, preparing them for a more complex world.