MOVIES: Disney films continue to entertain modern audiences by refining classic movie-making tactics.
By Ruthie Farrell, Staff Writer
Movies provide a convenient escape from our typically mundane lives. Though we might realize just how depressing the light of day is after watching a sickly sweet rom-com or an epic war movie, our minds become lost in an idealistic land for two hours. That is what society craves. Disney movies are arguably the best at evoking the magical feelings we love to experience. But how has the company managed to maintain its reputation over the past seventy years?
Walt Disney began his business as a simple animation studio. Back then, animations were light-hearted and fresh. Unlike today’s films, they did not ponder the meaning of existence or feature any other heavy material. The simplistic themes were meant to amuse the audience, not blow their minds or leave them depressed for weeks to come like some recent movies do. Somehow, such a small studio has grown into one of the biggest media corporations in the world.
Other media corporations like Warner Brothers and Universal Studios amuse those with a “mature” sense of humor. Movies like The Hangover and Ted targeted older audiences, saturated with raunchy jokes and expletives. Disney producers take a different approach, making movies for both children and the young at heart. Disney serves as a guilty pleasure for people of all ages, and it provides media sources that can be thoroughly enjoyed by almost anyone. When it comes to magic, innocence and just a hint of cheese, it is hard for anyone to resist. Disney’s newest releases are proof that the classic brand is sticking around. Most of Disney’s modern films have held to traditional animation, music and themes—all of which are classic Disney characteristics. Frozen, which came out last week, adds on to Disney’s long list of successes. The dominating theme of acceptance and diversity embraces modern society, yet the film contains just enough characters who randomly break into song to maintain a sense of familiarity. Disney’s latest additions subtly hint at transition; the characters use casual, up-to-date speech in the script and music numbers, but the original style is still very present.
Time does not seem to be changing the fact that anyone can take pleasure in youthful entertainment. Disney has accompanied us through childhood, and will most likely continue to encourage both young and old to never let go of the magic that the corporation’s movies have brought to our lives.
Photo courtesy of www.disney.wikia.com