Hindsight

Classic Kids, or 100 films that the kids in your life have to see by 13 or else!

Day 88: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

This was the first movie 'cartoon' I ever saw, how lucky was I? But, I have to admit this movie scared the .... out of me, so I would recommend that you keep this for the older kids. That apple scene is still freaky, ah! Plus, the princess/witch binary is alive and well in this film, so do take the time to discuss gender stereotypes, and how in recent years Disney has 'tried' to give their heroines more nuanced characteristics. That said...This film is still sublime over 70 years later, the artwork, a virtual watercolor painting come to life, and such detail; check out the raindrops in the chase sequence near the end of the film, as they hit the rocks and then melt away. Plus, how great are the dwarfs? Still think grumpy is the most alarmingly cool. Then there is the "Heigh Ho" scene, an enchanting tune, with just the right dash of humor. In the end, just an amazing film, thrilling, and memorable. Based upon the fairy tales of Brothers Grimm, (although taking liberties with story elements) Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is not only a Disney classic, but the first full-length Cel animated feature film ever!. How about this for figures? In the first year of its release the film made $8 million dollars, and this was during the depression, quite something. The film picked up Academy Awards for Best Musical Score, and an honorary Oscar for Walt Disney.

Themes: Fantasy, Revenge, Innocence, Fear, Disney
Media Literacy Questions for Kids:  How is this Disney film similar and yet different than current Disney animated films?  What is the core value of the story?  Why are Disney films frequently about princesses versus Witches?