Disney has ingeniously honored its “Disney princess” legacy while adapting to modern times with the release of Raya and the Last Dragon. This new acclaimed adventure diverges from traditional Disney fare, resembling more of an Indiana Jones film due to its thrilling action sequences and remarkable animation.
According to screenwriter Qui Nguyen, the film was conceived as an action-adventure story rather than solely a Southeast Asian princess movie. The heart of the film is centered around captivating action and martial-arts spectacle, setting it apart from the classic princess narratives.
While the evolution of Disney’s female characters has moved toward empowerment and action, there’s been a debate about whether characters like Mulan, Merida, and Moana should be classified as “Disney princesses.” This debate has arisen due to the shift from the classic damsel in distress archetype to strong, independent heroines.
Despite this debate, Raya is unequivocally referred to as a “princess movie” by the filmmakers. This is a deliberate choice, as her leadership and responsibility as a princess provide important themes for the film. The decision to maintain her princess status was also influenced by the need to reflect leadership qualities in a divided world.
Osnat Shurer, a producer involved in both Raya and Moana, recognizes the evolving nature of Disney’s characters. In the case of Raya, the filmmakers embrace the princess designation as a way to redefine the concept of a princess for the 21st century. This endeavor also considers the impact on Disney’s merchandise lines.
Kelly Marie Tran, who voices Raya, expresses her enthusiasm for reshaping the perception of “princess” and “hero.” She believes that characters like Raya are expanding and enriching the understanding of these terms, marking an exciting shift in narrative and representation.
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Nala, Scar, Mufasa, Timon, Pumbaa