The Walt Disney company are not only responsible for bringing some of the most archetypical characters to life and continually pusghing what is possible in the field of animated films, but they are also largely responsible for the images that pop into our mind if someone mentions “Snow White” or “Pinocchio”. For generations Disney has maintained an image of innocence and at the same time aggressively tried to expand their businesses into more and more markets, by utilizing a broader and broader range of media.
This session will primarily look at the formal aspects of Disney’s films, and primarily some of the most recent of these - from the early 90s and onwards, but it will also investigate why a company that has been subjected to such critiques over the years still maintains an almost spotless image in the consumers eyes. In short, what lies in the term Disneyfication, and what makes Disney Disney?
- What is the attraction of this company and their products, and what is it that makes it appeal to children and adults worldwide?
- Is a “Disney Classic” really a classic?
- Is Baudrillard right in his assumption that Disneyland is more real than Downtown LA?
- Is Walt Disney cryogenically frozen and, if so, why?
- Would it be fair to separate Disney’s films from their aggressive marketing startegies?
- Does Disney’s films have political agendas as some claim, or are they good clean fun for the whole family?
Film: Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise, The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996). Screening 29-3, kl 14.00 in room 2.130
Reading: Jean Baudrillard, “The Precession of Simulacra” & Jean Baudrillard, “Disneyworld Company”. (Cheap-skates get it here)
Links: Disney’s website
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