Wingless Fairies and Wheelchair Mermaids

It’s a dangerous world that birthed our fairy tales. Before the advent of modern science, disease and disaster all too easily left children disabled or dead. Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm lost three siblings in infancy and Wilhlem himself dealt with ill health (scarlet fever, asthma) for much of his adult life. Read more... “Wingless Fairies and Wheelchair Mermaids”

Goldilocks, Cinderella, and now Ariel: Meghan Markle’s History of Framing Her life Through Fairy Tale

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s interview earlier this month was a trifecta testimony to the power of fairy tales, narrative, and enduring influence of television. Oprah Winfrey led the CBS-broadcast special that reached over 17 million US viewers-roughly 19% of the US population-and garnered seven million dollars. Read more... “Goldilocks, Cinderella, and now Ariel: Meghan Markle’s History of Framing Her life Through Fairy Tale”

Five Things Mulan Did Wrong that Raya did (Mostly) Right  

This post contains light spoilers for Raya and the Last Dragon. Proceed with caution. 

 The dragon-worshipping nation of Kumandra finds itself entirely lacking in dragons after Sisu, the last of her kind, sacrifices herself to defeat the Droon, a malevolent black force that turns people to stone. Read more... “Five Things Mulan Did Wrong that Raya did (Mostly) Right  ”

Coloring Magic: Why No New Adaptation Can Replace the 1939 Wizard of Oz

Last month, New Line Cinema announced an adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz directed by Nicole Kassel. Kassel stated that while “the 1939 musical is part of my DNA, I am exhilarated and humbled by the responsibility of re-imagining such a legendary tale.” Read more... “Coloring Magic: Why No New Adaptation Can Replace the 1939 Wizard of Oz”