Once upon a time…

Fairy tales had all begun to sound the same. There is a damsel in distress who must be rescued by her prince. Just another day in any average person’s life. Right? Fortunately, Disney’s latest movies such as “Brave” and “Frozen” tell a more realistic story.

Disney’s princess-movie evolution started in 2009 when “The Princess and the Frog” was released into theaters and featured the first princess of color, Tiana.

This whole story is based around African-American culture, with a jazz based theme that takes place in New Orleans, right down to Tiana’s heavy southern accent. This movie shows that Disney is breaking away from its usual kind of fairy tale, and is exploring the different cultures.

Shortly after that came “Tangled,” Disney’s version of Rapunzel. Many knew the story of the young girl trapped in a tower by her stepmother. However, no one expected she would be forced to find a way out on her own. Rapunzel had no idea that her hair would be the cost in order to save her Prince Charming.

Disney used to be caught up in their princess’ looks and making them a symbol of beauty. They are now more focused on designing their princesses to be good role models for young girls. The newer princesses show more down-to-earth personality traits such as independence. They have also started to give princesses a healthy, more realistic body type. With a wider waist and smaller chest, Disney’s “Brave” is a perfect example of this.

Merida, the princess in “Brave,” has messy, fiery-red, ringlet curls, showing that a princess’s hair doesn’t always have to be perfect. However, aside from appearances, Merida is determined to break her family’s curse and make the future she wants for herself. Chaos begins when she disobeys customs in her kingdom. She is allowed one wish and all the rest is left to her archery skills and her bravery within.

Disney’s newest princess sisters, Anna and Elsa of “Frozen,” must find one another to save their castle that is destined to an endless winter. The story defines how powerful a sister’s bond truly is. It is certainly not your average fairy tale with its happily ever after no one expected.

These movies are examples of how Disney is evolving. It is about time that a company as universally loved as Disney should begin to feature a movie with not only a nice story but one with a message that will live on forever.
Happily ever after.