NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana (AP) — The Walt Disney Co. has started production on an animated musical fairy tale called “The Frog Princess,” which will be set in New Orleans and feature the Walt Disney Studio’s first black princess.
The company unveiled the plans at its annual shareholders’ meeting in New Orleans.
John Lasseter, chief creative officer for Disney and the Disney-owned unit Pixar Animation Studios, said the movie would return to the classic hand-drawn animation process, instead of using computer animation that has become the industry standard. He called the film “an American fairy tale.”
“The film’s New Orleans setting and strong princess character give the film lots of excitement and texture,” Walt Disney Studios Chairman Dick Cook said.
The movie will be scored by Randy Newman, who also wrote the music for Disney’s “Toy Story,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Toy Story 2,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “Cars.”
Newman performed a song from the score for the shareholders.
John Musker and Ron Clements, who co-directed “The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” and “Hercules” will co-direct the movie. The pair also wrote the story for the film.
Disney said its new animated princess — Maddy — will be added to its collection of animated princesses used at the company’s theme parks and on consumer products.
The film is set for release in 2009.
Magess says
“unforgettable tale of love, enchantment and discovery with a soulful singing crocodile, voodoo spells and Cajun charm,”
Oh lord. Voodoo. Either the Christians will be mad at the evil magic, or the voodoo practitioners will be mad that their religion isn’t properly represented, or the black community will be mad that the first black princess practices dark arts. I can just picture the roar now.
Evorgleb says
Yeh I just blogged about this over at Highbrid Nation, check it out if you get a chance. Anyway, it really is about time Disney gave little girls a black princess to look up to. Its long overdue. I also think its great that the film will take place in New Orleans. I’ll definately have to take my neice to the Frog Princess.
Smiley says
Could this BE any more racist? Are they going to have her ride on a magical carriage made from a watermelon?
[obfuscated] says
I see she’s still an unrealistic representation of women that will undoubtedly continue Disney’s warping of millions of little girls’ perception of beauty. At least they’re being ethnically diverse now.
bran says
the “first Black Princess” well there u have it .. racisim still in full swing in america.. could only imagine the bunch of guys in a boardroom somewhere.. how can we connect with the afircan american community.. how about growing up america and mabey forgetting about racial segregation all together.
Magess says
Was anyone like “the first Arab princess!” when they came out with Jasmine in Aladdin? Or did it not occur to anyone because the story took place in an Arabian setting?
Figures says
It figures that someone somewhere would say that this is a racist act. Get over it. The fact of the matter is this is the first black princess. How the hell is that racist? Just because they didnt mention anything about the first Arab princess? Dont be so fucking ingorant. Its people like you who say that, that make people racist. Shut the fuck up.
Nikki says
I think it’s wonderful that Disney has finally decided to introduce a African American princess. It’s hard buying toys for my daughter because majority of the toys appeal to other cultures. Disney is going to profit a great deal within the African American community. I’m definitely willing purchase anything dealing with the new princess for my daughter!
Maddy says
Stop seeking racism in everything 🙂
Chyco says
WoW!!!! excited but at the same time Why does it have to be American Black Princess why not take a risk and have the setting in africa???? we did not have an american jasmine or belle?? even the little mermaid was candian or something!!!
dsfr4 says
Couldn’t they base it on a story in African mythology? I think that would be more interesting. And it would make sense to find a story that’s already been around. Just like most other disney animations. At least the good ones were.
Chicago says
Why does it have to be a Frog Princess? The name isn’t afrocentric either…Maddy? Give us something that we can be proud of without frogs and fairy tales. There is a wealth of beautiful stories out here that would endow pride and hope.
Congratulations Halle Berry on your star!
Chicago
Mike W. says
I think Disney is Disney. Imagine Films is producing “The African Princess” and from what I understand they created this character in 2005. I researched the “The African Princess” and came up with http://www.theafricanprincess.com. I think that this character reflects more of what people are looking for in a princess in general. The African Princess appears to be the type of story I would like to bring my family out to see. I like Disney, I just don’t think they nailed this one.
The African Princess has my vote!
Roz says
I think its a start, but not enough effort or imagination put forth on Disney’s part. I don’t get into all the racist black/white/other crap, but i really don’t understand the concept of New Orleans being where she’s from and why she is the Princess of Frogs. There are black princess’ in this world and they are not from the swamps in New Orleans or even in America for that matter. I’d be interested to know how many “black” people had input on this genius idea.
dodg says
sounds very cool, I’m too old to appreciate the crocodile but it sounds so awesome.
I know there’ll be ppl against the voodoo, but youre just close minded asses
LAURETTA says
I THINK THAT IT IS GREAT TO FINALLY HAVE BLACK PRINCESS BUT THE MOVE SHOULD BE FILM IN AFRICA.>>>>>……:)
Kimberly says
What’s with the frog? They couldn’t think of anything more elegant for a black princess than a frog? None of the other princesses were associated with creatures that most people consider gross and disgusting. This is just another example of them meaning well but getting it wrong. They’re always getting it wrong.
Oh yeah and what about Africa? They have actual princesses and old stories about princesses on that continent.
And it shouldn’t have taken them so long to get started on this, I mean it’s 2007 and black people have long been able to spend enough money in this country to support a film like this at the box office.
I’d better not hear a single gospel choir in this story either.
Britt Usbo says
I am twenty-one and am a writer for children. I would have NEVER thought I would live to see a black princess through Disney. It nearly brought me to tears when I heard about the new full-length animated film. I think Disney is taking a risk with this film, but one that I feel is worth taking. I just wish they would’ve have taken the risk sooner!
Thouroughbred says
My twin girls are 5. We visit Disneyland at least once a week as we live near. Frogs are disgusting, but not worse than a dead mother,absent father and jealous stepmother. I’m going to ignore the storyline because frankly, ALL Disney Princesses have been through some shit! No Mommas, curses, slavery, family dishonor, poverty you name it. Disney Princesses are mentally abused and the stories are too intense for my girls WHO CAN’T WAIT TO FILL OUR ROOMS UP WITH BROWN PRINCESS swag! Let’s get it back in perspective, if you want someones business, you have to ask. Hey Disney, thanks for asking! Voodoo, might make a cool Halloween costume, or maybe a spooky ride…hehe Smile for my kids who are going to be exposed to crap anyway & will be happy to identify themselves with a Princess. P.S. Disney does have an African Princess, in Africa-Nala.
JOANNA says
I recently went shoping for my 4 granddaughters for school,and one of the things they asked for is products with the disney princesses. I looked all over for back packs and finally found some in this African American neighborhood. All the other back packs were picked over and laying on the floor and everywhere,but on the high racks were the disney princess back pack neat and full as though they were not even touched. I had to get a clerk to assist in getting them down for me. As I told the clerk which ones I wanted,three little black girls stared at me intensely,all the while talking to thier mother on which back pack they wanted..american idol,tweety bird,ect. Not once did they ask thier mother for the disney princess back pack, but they stared at me as though wondering why I was buying them. They finally made a choice and selected a back pack with nothing on it. My heart dropped for the thought of this is all my beautiful, intelligent granddaughters having Haitian decendants,had to relate to when they think of princesses. I thought do they really know that they are beautiful pricesses full of potential to be whatever they set thier mind to. I also grieved for those three little girls that I did not even know thier names, but I saw in thier face, I can’t identify with those princesses, I don’t look like them,How can I carry that back pack with pride, so they walked away with a back pack with no writings on it at all. My heart is heavy for the true little black princesses in America.Kerry Marshall creative director of Covenant Pictures is in the process of releasing an animated film “THE AFRICAN PRINCESS” due to be released in 2008,set in Africa. I hope everyone that knows a beautiful little princess will support this film which is closer to a true princess that African American little girls can identify with and be proud of.
I will not bash Disney for thinking about the beautiful and intelligent African American little princesses in America,but I truely know that they did not get thier first film correct. “frog princess” NO! AFRICAN PRINCESS! YES!!! The name of the film even starts negative for a beautiful and intellegent African American little girl to deal and identify with. Come on Disney…I really hope you have time to rethink the title,theme, and where the story takes place to make sure every little African American girl can truely smile when they here or see DISNEY.
Tara says
I am a dark eyed, dark haired and former dark skinned 18 year old hispanic girl and I grew up with blonde barbie dolls and disney princess merchandise. Not once do I ever recall thinking that any hair color, body shape or race was superior because of the toys I played with. I appreciated them for their own beauty, and honestly unless children are taught differently, I believe that they can and will overlook the fact that the dolls they play with don’t correspond with how they personally look. It is important to reinforce the idea that diversity is OK AND teach that all races should be equal, though. I completely agree and support everyones spoken opinions. I am excited that disney is finally introducing a black princess to the world.
Travilla Crawford says
I agree its about time to have a brown faced princess, but come on the “frog princess” give me a break. I think its too late for disney. When this movie does well or doesnt do well it will be blamed on the black community. I cant stand disney for not having a black princess by now, this is just a what the hell kind of deal. I dont spend my money on disney, nor will I buy disney products for my daughter. I dont even really care for abc. This is a joke in black face
Beverly says
I think Travilla Crawford has an excellent point, the black community is going to be implicated in the creation of this black princess, that looks black. Knowing the history of New Orleans and the United States in general we all know that “black” especially in New Orleans, doesn’t necessarily mean brown skinned. Disney could have used a “white” princess just as easily as a black one because the “one drop rule” prevailed in this country for a long, long time – and even now if your great, great, great, great grand mother (1/36th) was black and you are snow white and live white, you are still considered black under Louisiana state law. That aside, let’s also think about the underlying ideology of Disney princesses, how does a Disney princess get a prince to love her? Was it Cinderella’s stimulating conversation or Snow White’s adeptness at chess that bagged their princes? It’s all in the rescue isn’t it, and it’s paradoxical to place a black princess in New Orleans to await rescue when the reality, brutal and easy to contrast is that rescue will never come. The think about fairy-tales is that people have to buy into them, buy them, for them to mean anything. This is not taking place in storybook land, or in a land where there really ARE princesses, it is set in a place where it is impossible – there are no real Princesses in America unless they are visiting from abroad. With the fact of New Orleans there is the fact of New Orleans history, both recent and not so recent.
For the poster who noted that Nala is an African princess in Africa, it’s important to note that princess is *not human* and it would be quite revealing to associate Africans (and/or African-Americans) with a princess that is not human. Do you think there are no people in Africa that a suitable HUMAN princess could be constructed? Do you think Africans are not human? Don’t worry, Thouroughbred’s answer is obvious.
Intelligent Being says
I hope all of you who are protesting this movie are aware of how ignorant you truly are. First of all, it has been stated that Disney chose New Orleans as the location for this movie as a tribute to the rich history of this city, much of which has been lost in the aftermath of Katrina. It’s not because it’s swampy. And as for it being an odd location for a princess story… well guess what, there’s no real princesses under the sea either. And there’s no real witches, fairies, genies, or talking lions in the world either. Welcome the the world of make believe!
Now onto the story. The Princess and the Frog is an actual story originally written by the Brothers Grimm. It was titled The Frog Prince. You might want to look it up before you continue to imply that Disney wrote this story specifically so a black girl could be the Princess of Disgusting Frogs. In the story, a beautiful princess is playing with a golden ball near a deep pool of water. The ball falls in and the frog retrieves it for her in exchange for the chance to spend time with the princess in her palace. She begrudgingly agrees and is kind to the frog for three days. On the third day, the spell placed upon the frog is broken and he turns back into a handsome prince. He takes the princess as his wife and they live happily ever after. Work in a few songs and some cute animated characters and BAM!, you have a typical Disney fairy tale.
Could they have used a story from African Mythology? Sure. As an English Literature teacher I know that there are plenty of excellent stories they could have used. There are probably plenty of better fairy tales they could have used too, but this is the one they chose and it’s actually a charming story about the power of kindness and self-sacrifice.
I think people are reading way too much into this and nobody is doing their research. Please, just make sure you know what the hell you’re talking about before you open your mouth and spout out enough ignorance to drown us all. And pay attention to what you’re writing too because there are so many typos in most of these posts that they look like something my 3 year old would type! Newsflash- you can’t make a point if nobody can understand you.
Cyndaquil says
No matter how tastfully this movie is done, there will be bloggers who complain that the movie either perpetuates black stereotypes, or whitewashes African American culture. Frankly, I hate to think that a sweet lovable character is going to be treated like the next Jar Jar Binks.
Is this realy such a big deal. Disney already has a TV series called ‘The Proud Family’ which portrays an animated African American family. I’ll admit all the characters talk funny and have lips drawn like those Bratz girls, but still black characters are not completely new to Disney.
Beverly says
I’ve posted a link here to a blog that appears to be dedicated to this film http://disneyfrogprincess.blogspot.com/
Of the many blogs I’ve read about this subject, I have found most people feel that a black Disney princess has been long overdue. I personally have mixed feelings about it, and I think that people should think critically about cultural products, especially those that come out of today’s mass media. The thought that “a sweet lovable character is going to be treated like the next Jar Jar Binks” is not so bad – think about if Mammy or Sambo were treated like that. How different would America be if those characters were rejected! Do you see ‘The Proud Family’ lasting half a century and influencing several generations of kids? Do you understand how Disney’s Pocahontas rewrites history specifically for children? That is a very big deal. But I guess with New Orleans’ rich and complicate history of slavery, Jim Crow, Octoroon balls and other color, literally and figuratively it is a perfect candidate for a historical rewrite.
Uppity Negro says
Are you people serious? First let me say thanks for that comment “Intelligent Being” I dont know your nationality, but what does it matter, what you said is true.I am a 26 year old women of color (black). And as much as I hate to say this, but “WE” need to stop. After reading the comments stating “Why cant the storyline be in Africa?” Most of “you” or should I say “us” need to be honest with ourselves, half of black people don’t even consider themselves “African Americans”, but rather use “Black American” and boldly state how their not from African. And to be honest not all blacks are from Africa, learn your history!! Okay lets think about it, if the story was in Africa, then folks will be complaining about her being in a jungle and all of the jungle animals Disney would use to make the story colorful.Let me take it a step further, for all of us who went to college with “African” students like I did, be honest with yourselves, how often did you associate yourselves with them after class? Never! Or how often did you complain about the African security guards, by saying the need to go back to Africa. So give me a break with this Africa stuff. We are always complaining how our little girls ( and I dont even have kids) have no fictional charaters to identify with, now they have one, and some want to protest. How can you say its about time for Disney to creat a black princess, and turn around and say that your going to protest in the same breath? “Did you all protest when your daughters wanted any of the other Disney princesses?” No! you brought it and it’s in your little girls toy boxes.
Oh did we forget this was fiction, a story tailored for little people. If “The Princess Frog” was a story about a young black women being raped by a white man in the French Quaters, will you feel better? I believe that would be a little too much for your 3-8 year olds to digest.
Dawn says
Lets forget a moment about red, yellow, black or white. What does Disney do to influence any good in children’s lives with their movies? Disney definately doesn’t do anything to encourage healthy, happy homelives. If they did they would have living moms and/or dads! Disney is out for one thing $$$$$$ and obviously doing well w/ generations of corrupted minds. But what do they care, they keep making their billions and billions. All I’m saying is they don’t care what color of princess they have, as long as they make money! I’ve had to ban Disney movies b/c my 4 yr. old is scared to death I’m going to die, b/c that is ” what happens to all the moms in the movies we watch”
Beverly says
Snow White’s enchanted forest is fiction, Cinderella’s castle is fiction, Rapunzel’s “land far away” is fiction, Little Mermaid is fiction, Agrabah (Aladdin) is fiction, New Orleans is not fiction, it is a real place with real people and a real history. If The Princess and the Frog was set in Anytown or Gotham, THEN we’d be talking about fiction. If young black women have been raped in the French Quarter by any group of men I don’t think a historical rewrite for children is the appropriate treatment. I’m strongly in favor of fiction, and if it’s children’s fiction then it should be fictional so that it can have an IMAGINARY HISTORY that hopefully doesn’t involve slavery, rape, etc.
Dawn, I like your solution – you can still have the merchandise with out the movie 😉
Quiet Revolution says
When I first heard that Disney was making a new fairytale with a black princess set in New Orleans, my first thought was- really, not Africa? But now I think that they made this move for a number of reasons- some of them valid. One, they have depicted Africa a number of times already in film, and a new setting in a classic American city for a princess would be a refreshing take for the Disney franchise. You would be seeing not one, but two things that Disney has not done before. Two, New Orleans and the French Quarter has always held a very romanticized, mystical quality in the imaginations of most people, and would actually be a great location for this story to happen.
I think that Disney has the opportunity, should they take it, to really create something that has never been seen before, and make it a memorable and magical experience for all people. There is soooo much history to New Orleans, and it is a fascinating history at that. Disney has a lot of material to work with here and I hope they realize it and make use of it. Not just slap together some kiddy flick to appease a demographic, and then wipe there hands and go, “there, now people can get off our backs”. Instead, I hope they create something beautiful, amazing and touching with real substance. From the landscapes, to the architecture of the time, to the Creole, African, French, and Cajun cultures of the era- there’s just so much to work with here.
As a few posters have already mentioned….the name choice is a bit odd. Maddy? Definately not as musical sounding as Jasmine, Cinderella, Aurora, or Ariel. Come on, was there nothing better? Let’s all hope it stands for Madeleine. Even better, remove temptation, and just change the name to something else like Gabrielle. It does bring to mind the whole “Mad Black Woman” idea. No place for that stuff in this movie. I really hope Disney changes the name.
Otherwise, I am really looking forward to the movie, and so are a lot of other people I know who will be bringing their kids.
Nadria says
All of this has been said already, but just want to voice my opinion, though I know it will never change some of your minds.
I imagine Disney didn’t set this in Africa for 2 main reasons: 1. The OTHER animated movie entitled THE AFRICAN PRINCESS. Movie studios would never produce almost identical films. and 2. The Lion King was set in Africa. The main characters were animals, but they still had human voices and emotions.
Next, New Orleans seems like a logical place to set a Disney film. It’s a beautiful city, and princess stories do typically involve magic, so why not capitalize on the rich history/legends of voodoo in New Orleans?
As far as the frog goes, Louisiana IS swampland. There are always native animals in these films–lions, elephants, woodland creatures…
Also, do we even know the time period in which this film takes place? I highly doubt Disney would set the film anywhere near the time of slavery. Though if they did, I personally think it would be a very brave move, that could turn this fairy tale into a real work of art. We all know that Disney won’t show rape in a film (Beverly, are you living on this planet?), but Cinderella’s situation wasn’t all roses. She was white, right? So was Belle, and her situation comes about as close to rape as Disney can.
And, in reality, we Black people aren’t the only ones on this planet who have suffered. Come to think of it, I myself haven’t actually suffered that much in the REAL history of my life. Have you?
Not since Gay Days has Disney caused so much controversy, and I say kudos to them.
Beverly says
Nadria, I think you should re-read my comment, think about it carefully and do your homework before making foolish statements. Of course Disney shows rape in film, Miramax is a Disney owned company and rape is the least of what you will find in some Miramax films (Pulp Fiction, The Crow, Reservoir Dogs – just look it up).
The time period for the film is the 1920s-30s the Emancipation was around 1865, Jim Crow was on the books until 1965 or so with the Civil Rights Act. We’re talking about 5 decades after slavery, Nadria, is that close enough for you?
Nadria, please go back and read the five comments before the one comment of mine you are responding to (click on the links too) so that you can make a contribution to this discussion. I’m really appalled that you would think an animated version of the caste system where all the black characters are servants in AMERICA (New Orleans is part of America) and not Storyville or Fairytale Land is appropriate for impressionable minds. It’s unfortunate that you think Pocahontas, who was 12 when she came across John Smith’s path before being married to another colonist at around 14, I think, is an okay version of history to feed to children.
Let me simplify just for you, Nadria:
fiction = good
revisionist history = bad
I don’t understand why voodoo and black magic is only present in New Orleans, this story could have just as easily been set on a fictive island anywhere in the Tropics. Frogs are not only found in New Orleans either, but I have no problem with the frog in this story.
I think that the statement “we Black people aren’t the only ones on this planet who have suffered”, is tangential to this topic. NO ONE here is saying the opposite is true! Why exactly do you think the “REAL history” of your life is only written by you? And what does it mean to suffer?
Amanda says
You guys just need to get over the race aspect. That is the problem in todays society, things rely to heavily on race and we need to get rid of that. You don’t think people are racist towards me??? people just don’t call it racist because i’m white, it’s only racist if its a nonwhite person. Disney creates a black princess and everyone hates the idea…fine then lets not have a black princess…get over it…it is just a movie. you don’t think the other princesses had a hard time? look at cinderella…and because the black princess is a frog princess it’s a problem? disney is known for mixing their humans with animals…it is a fairytale get over it…what about jasmine and mulan…stop making such a big deal…have you ever seen festival of the lion king at animal kingdom…they feature a black princess in that…look at ariel from the little mermaid she was torn between 2 different worlds…that could be considered as different races…just get over yourself and enjoy the movie…
Amanda says
oh and another thing i forgot…who cares if her name is Maddy…how many girls do you hear with the name cinderella or aurora…you guys really need to find something better to do with your time than critize disney…
Beverly says
Amanda, although I shouldn’t waste my time talking to you about race, I will anyway. It seems really easy for you to “get over the race aspect” what I recommend for you is that you need to get over the privilege aspect. I don’t suppose you’ve ever stopped to wonder why the interest rate you’ll pay on your house will be so much lower than a black person that makes more money than you. Has it occurred to you that security never bothers to follow you around the upscale stores that you shop at? When was the last time that the police pulled you over and sat your ass on the sidewalk? Tell me about that time you went to a restaurant and watched the waitress walk past you to take other people’s orders FIRST. Amanda, what you’re telling me is that you haven’t noticed you aren’t black. I guess you really are color blind.
Nina says
This is the most racist thing in the world… I hate Disney
JillyKT says
Those were wonderfully expressed opinions by Intelligent Being. Bravo! Unfortunately, the diatribe about poor spelling and punctuation falls far short of being meaningful due to the grammatical errors in your own post.
Tea Bell says
It would be cool if it was set in our native land, AFRICA instead of America. Since all the other princesses were set in their native lands. But yea. I’m still happy they’re doing an african american princess. That’s pretty sweet. Although there’s no such thing as an african american princess.
There were AFRICAN PRINCESSES. But then they might do something and everyone will use the race card. lol. What a risk they’re taking. lol. Im excited to see how it will turn out.
Dotty says
I’m so thrilled that they are finally going back to the old Fairy Tales, princesses, and hand drawn annimations, all of the newer stuff has been not that great and I really want to see this one, I’ve heard somewhere that Maddy’s name has been changed though, to Tiana. Tiana sounds prettier. She looks really nice in the picture. Disney can take all the time they need if they are finally going to be putting out another one of their Old Style animations! I squeed when I heard of this. Their is even going to be Voodoo stuff in it! Magic = neato. After this I heard that they are making Rapunzuel.
Sonia says
OK So I’m thrilled they are finally making a black Disney princess. It was WAY long overdue. I mean I am happy but I just think why did it take so long? I’m a little skeptical on the name “The Frog Princess”. I mean all the other stories of princesses sound beautiful and this sounds a little off. I mean I guess I can’t really judge until it comes out. I do think this movie will make some of there biggest money yet. I mean I know SO many parents who will not buy Disney princess stuff because there is not a princess that their children can relate to. So I am thrilled. But I just hope they promote her. My daughter loves the Disney princesses and my problem is on every item you see the same characters. It’s always Belle, Aurora, Sleeping Beauty and The Little Mermaid. I have to say it is very rare that you see Jasmine and when I do see her on something I jump to buy it. However I never see Pocahontas. Seriously parents if your children have Disney princess stuff look at it before you jump down my throat about it. My daughter is mixed and I feel she needs to see more diversity. I do not feel like the Disney princesses do that. However as we all know every little girl wants to be a princess. SO I am looking forward to this. It’s too bad it won’t be released until 2009.
Sonia says
I will say aside from my other post in reading other peoples responses that race should not be mentioned when discussing this movie is a little well….unrealistic. I mean of course it’s gonna come up. HELLO it’s 2008 and there has never been an African American princess. That says something right there. I mean who have these little girls been able to look up to. For me the closest my daughter can look up to is Jasmine and my daughter isn’t Arab! So this movie is long overdue and I don’t think people who have had no experience in this are should jump to criticize other people for pointing that out! And by the way yes I am white and I grew up in a good neighborhood. However My daughter is mixed. Her father is black. And when you are in that situation it’s a whole different ball game. It’s sad but true. I am now a single mother to my daughter. I do not mention these things for sympathy because I do not need any. I am perfectly happy. All I am saying is until the shoe is on the other foot stop criticizing others for something you know nothing about.
Darrion says
I am not sure how I feel about the broadcast of the first black princess. Yes agree it is long overdue, but to advertise this as an American fairy tale? I cannot imagine what the plot will be. I glad to have an image my two daughters can look up to. Granted there are other public figures to look up to, but not as a young girl. There are not any black faces girls ages 3 to 12 can look at, and say I want to be like her. Age appropriate television shows portray young blacks as buffoons or dancing and singing (entertaining others) Overall I think this a good beginning to give young black girls a positive image to admire.
Darya says
“At least they’re being ethnically diverse now.”
Yes, since having a Chinese princess, an Arabian princess, and a Native American princess isn’t being ethnically diverse, we had to wait until an African American princess was made before the ethnicity was “brought”.
Nubiantigeress says
I’m all for Disney being racially diverse and I’m estatic that they are FINALLY doing a movie about a black princess. But why is being set in New Orleans? Why not Africa? There WERE royalty in Africa. In fact the first monarchies were in Africa. Why couldn’t she be a Ghanan princess, or a Kemetan princess? Why New Orleans? I’m going to see this movie most likely, but I’m predicting mass disappointment.
Stacey says
Disney movies are light family entertainment, aimed at children. The stories reinforce good social skills and values. All of the disney princesses’ are good inspirational figures. Why are people turning the addition of a new princess into a political debate? Personally i dont care where the film is set, and dont see why it should be set in Africa ; not all black people are african!! Pocahontas was a real life person, based on true historical events; so i dont understand the fuss about New Orleans not being a fictional place. The frog prince is a classic Grimm story, most of disney princess movies are based on tradiinal fairytales. If you have a problem with the film dont watch it. If you think disney is a money grabbing corperation, dont purchase the merchandise. Personally i will be counting down the days till the films release.
Mom says
this site is not posting the all comments they are taking away our rights and we are turing them in. sorry for this but the site will be shut down ASAP
Sam says
That is because, as owners of this site, we reserve the right, as all legitimate sites do, to screen comments and eliminate any we may deem to have content that most would consider demeaning or derogatory or that use words in such a way to create hostility and unfair judgment.
Everyone has the right to say what they want on this site, but it is not a forum and we reserve the right to curtail or even remove any comments we know the general public and most of our readers would find offensive.
Mom says
no you just edit thing to make it look like everyone agrees with your point of view. believe it or not there are many moms that feel just like me. if you want a place prencess that’s fine but the black community need to change it’s way before we start selling it to our kids. think about it who are the real “black princess” in America the girls on the music videos that are most of the time about drugs and violence I could get over two hundred names of people who feel just like me and just in my community. I’m not raciest and I don’t live in a races town but we all agree we don’t want our little girls trying to be like the girls in music videos and the black community has a lot more cleaning up before we expose them to our kids even some black wemen in my town agree
you say you remove comments know the general public and most of our readers would find offensive. well guess what this is how the general public feel it’s just they keep getting blocked from the public eye put this comment on the sight and give it a chance and you may see the truth
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Em says
Everyone seems to be slating the film title as if they never heard of the Frog Prince fairy tale before. Its a good story, about a spoilt brat who learns the importance of helping others. Sure, its important that Disney have introduced a black princess, but its not THAT significant – they’ve had chinese and Native American princesses before. But I don’t think theyre using the frog princess storyline to be insulting, or to associate the princess with ‘grossness’ at all. Its just a good, old-fashioned fairy tale with good morals and values, and I’ve often wondered why they haven’t touched it before.
Someone says
well “mom” your note about “real black princesses” being bad role models and referring to music videos… now really lets look at the white women in music videos there not exactly good role models themselves…i mean what parent whats there daughter to go around emulating Britney Spears or Paris Hilton? The fact that you would say that is showing a horrible generalization of black women, there are plenty of positive black role models. (and plenty of negative white female role models) so all in all your point is moot, race has nothing to do with one bing a good role model.
Oh and on another note not everyone commenting is agreeing so it has noting to do with trying to make everyone agree.
Chiara says
I have a few questions why does the first black disney princess have to be a frog? I don’t recall any of the other princesses being animals? And isn’t it ususally the princess who kisses the frog prince?
AK says
Why is her name “Maddy”? This sounds like a slave name,and a field slave at that. Also, why does she have to be a “frog” princess. Some reconsideration would be good for her name and type of princess.
Animelove23 says
I think the name Maddy was good for her. You have to look at the times.. its based in the 1920’s right??? From what I have heard, they have changed her name to Tiana.. Doesnt sound to 1920’s to me anymore.. They changed it because people opposed it so much. Yeah she isnt in Africa..it would have been great if she were in Africa.. but she isnt.. Im just glad that little girls my color now have a princess they can relate to. Because believe it or not.. there are SOME kids out there that DO wish they could be another race because of how things are in this world…
atrueblackprincess says
Why doesn’t anyone actually stop and search what the movie is based upon. It’s based on a story by the Brothers Grimm called the Frog Prince. It’s really cute and I completly understand why they chose New Orleans as the setting. It’s perfect. They could’ve choosen anywhere else but they chose New Orleans and that’s just fine. About the title, they could change the name of it but oh well. From what I read about it, it sounds like a very disney movie and I cannot wait to see it. And I wish that everyone would stop pulling the race card. Did anyone say that crap about Jasmine and Pocahontas? NO. So let it be and let the people who are happy for a new kind of princess rejoice. Now there are more princesses for little 3-8 year old girls to look up to. They didn’t make the movie for adults, it’s intended for children so let the children be the judge of it.
Mani says
I just think, and this is coming from a twenty something, young, black female who grew up loving all the Disney’s movies, that I would have preferred a storyline, which was based on folktales or old stories of factual “black princesses” from the African diaspora. I just think that Disney kind of let the ball down on this one, because a lot people from the African Diaspora outside of the US won’t identify with this character. This story could easily be another white character, so I don’t see where the individuality and the uniqueness of the movie is set apart from the rest…how more special is it really???
I don’t think it is racist, just lacking a well thought out plan of action. It is only racist when people impose their thoughts into it. Racism won’t go away in the US until people become more tolerant, less prejudice, and a tad bit more informed of different cultures. Just because it comes on tv doesn’t mean that it is the correct view of how a people live and how they are.
I’m sure it is going to make money and do well. Let’s just hope that the next one will have a more unique of storyline.
Michelle says
I cant believe everyone is making such a big deal about this on this website. I just wanted to see the princess. I love disney. PERIOD. People will hate the movie, love it, see it, or not see it. I support Disney because they have a way of grabbing childrens attention; it’s all about a child being able to escape from reality and IMAGINE a world of princes and princess’ and talking animals. They need movies like this to get them away from the stress of feeding off the energy of some of you people who can’t accept things for what they are; trying so hard to cast some type of harsh judgment on everything. The only people who will probably continue to focus on how good, bad, racist or ignorant the movie is are the adults!!! If you take your kid to go see it I doubt they will complain like some of you are. If you have a problem with the movie don’t see it! That’s the great thing about America, your not forced to see the movie! I know I will see it and if you take your children to see it, they may very well enjoy it!! And for the English teacher,you are very smart and you show it, but you should try applying a little humility. It’s just people choosing to leave comments on a website, they are not writing an essay to be graded and you do not have to come off as being smarter then every person on this site and maybe even the world.
Johnson says
I can’t wait…..Wish everyone would get over themselves. I love that it’s set in New Orleans. The buildings are beautiful the music is rich. I just hope this doesn’t turn into a minstrel show. With her doing the stereotypical stuff. On another note everyone back then did do all the voodoo so get over that. I go to school in Louisiana and hell people still believe in voodoo and black magic and there are stores in the French Quarter with that. The animals are gonna be fun I can’t wait =)
Lynne says
I am asian…i will be seeing this movie as i have seen all the disney princess movies. i will enjoy the film ( atleast i will if i still like cartoons…not sure since it has been some time since disney made a new princess and ive gotten older…)whether she is black or whatever race doesnt matter to me as long as the movie is good. i dont see why everyone is making such a big deal. i loved Ariel and i look nothing like her i wore the disney backpacks,lunchbags etc. i had no problem as a child imagining myself as Ariel…
Windstorm says
I think that this is going to be a wonderful film. There is nothing wrong with it being set in New Orleans. And as for the voo-doo thing, people need to get over that because everyone has a right to their beliefs. Peace.
Tiffany says
I think its wonderful that they now have a black disney princess. Everyone is so upset with the concept of the frog or the New Orleans setting, and no one has even seen it yet. Wait til it comes out people then say what you think of it, hello!
just a mom says
Wow!!! I’ve read most of th comments posted and all I can say is wow! Some of you should really lighten up! I am thrilled that finally we will see a black princess. Yes I think we can agree that it is long overdue. But I really think we should celebrate. The whole “Princess” franchise has helped me tremendously with potty training as those are the only panties my 2 year-old will wear and refuses to get them wet. I can’t wait to add her to the collection. Finally other cultures will get to see us in a positve way as it seems that our culture (even in 2008) is still taboo. We are just like everyone else in the world- we want a fulfilling life, we want to raise happy and healthy families and teach and educate our children. We should really be more upset that there are no black bachelors or bachelorettes!!!! But they continue to show that foolishness on VH-1 ie, Flavor of Love, I Love New York etc, etc. Pure BUFFOONERY!
none (anonymous) says
I’ll start by saying that I’m really looking forward to this movie! I wish people would stop being so nit-picky. I don’t believe disney was trying to be racist. If they were they wouldn’t have made Maddy/Tiana a black princess. I’m really sick and tired of all this race talk. Everyday in highschool someone has to make some black joke or white joke or mexican, asian, middleastern joke which undermines the people of that color! Come on! So what if I’m paler of darker than the person beside me! The color of your skin doesn’t determine who you are! We’re all individuals even if people think the majority of your color act a certain way…. Yes I’m rambling lol. I’m just peeved. Anyways, we’ll just have to wait till the movie comes out. ^_^::
Ray Andrea says
maybe its just me but Maddy sounds like a slave name.. its neither magical..enchanted .. graceful nor beautiful… sounds like somebodys old grandmother… then a princess… I dont think its racist .. i just find it particular funny that it would take Disney soo long to get a African-American Princess…. I dont quite understand that… like Pochontas was created by Disney that was a true story just retold by Disney and they cut out alot of stuff from the story just soo it could be approiate for kids…. like Jasmine i can honestly say i never knew Jasmine was Arabic until i turned 14 I never cared bout the color of there skin…just knew as a 7 year old that was my favorite princess… as far as the whle color thing.. Im Guyanese-American…. the color of my skin is brown.. my family is from Guyana my great grandparents are Portugese – Chinese-Trinidadian but i was born in America soo does that make me Brown-American.. like WTF? the color of Caucasian people are definitely not white.. soo why continue calling African American people Black…. like theres Indian people way darker then me why dont you people call them Black.. or call them Dark…? hmm im off track got a little excited sorry.. but anyways i think when or if Disney has the balls to go through with this movie.. it will not go far.. it will be just like all those movies with princesses that nobody cared about… im pretty sure Disney will get a gold fuckin star for being cultural sensitive….
manda says
Disney first black princess my butt… ITs going to SUCk… I wouldn’t be going to the movies to see a disney’s 1st black princess movie… PLEASEEE!!
I don’t think people will go see it .. and i think disney knows it… thats why its taking so long…
its going to go right to DVD !!
If by chance they add the 1st black princess at disney world i will not be stand in line to have my kids pictures done with her….
1st obama now this .. WTF!!!
Arkle says
Well, at least you’re honest about being a racist. *sigh* I just wish your kind would go move to an island or something. Do your inbreeding and club bombing there why dont’cha?
ClockworkDragon says
As Sci-Fi fans we are picky. We question the quality of a script, the quality of production, the quality of performance, even the quality of people who produce our entertainment. Yet sitting here reading the reactions to this story, I am appalled at the petty, hurtful, close-minded comments that have been generated as a result.
I thought our community, out of everyone, would be past this. I guess I was wrong. I just wonder how much further we have to go before before even our little rag tag group can fulfill the promise left to us by our founders.