Elmer takes a comprehensive look at the franchise as a whole and breaks down the individual components that make Disney animation and their Princesses unique.
Officially there have been thirteen Disney princesses, beginning with Snow White back in 1937 all the way to 2021's Raya of Raya and the last dragon. Of course, some would argue there are more than the "baker's dozen" while others would question the validity of one or two of the characters who did make the list. Regardless, there have been numerous articles and stories written about Disney Animation and the various characters created over the last eighty-five years. The newest offering is Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara by Emily Elmer with a foreword written by the voice of The Little Mermaid, actress Jodi Benson.
This handsome, hardcover book has much to offer Disney fans, especially Disney Princess Fans. As previously mentioned, it all began with Walt Disney, and his team of animators, interpretation of the Brothers Grimm's 1812 German Fairy Tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Elmer takes an extended look at what is considered the first Disney Princess and works her way through the various decades up to 2016's Moana (Raya is not included in this publication). Broken into eight unique chapters, the first few offer a walk down memory lane while the last three tend to be more factual.
For obvious reasons, Elmer begins with Origins and Inspirations, pinpointing various people and places that motivated the animators. The chapter starts with Snow White's "look" inspired by actresses Jean Harlow, Marlene Dietrich, and Claudette Colbert. It then moves on to Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, and Moana. Before closing the initial chapter, Elmer spends a little time discussing the transition over the years from damsels needing to be rescued to strong, independent women, one of which becomes Queen (Else from Frozen),
Chapters two, three, and four really delve into the influence the Disney Princesses have had on pop culture and vice versa. From the rejuvenation of princesses beginning in 1989 with The Little Mermaid to merchandising and the impact of collectibles, games, costumes, etc have had on consumers, as well as, the marriage between Disney Animation and fashion. There are examples of how Disney ballgowns have influenced Fashion Designers and a look at what was the end product when, in 2012, footwear designer, Christian Louboutin, created his interpretation of Cinderella's glass slipper for the Diamond release of the Blu-ray.
Chapter five reviews the music throughout the films, both animated and live-action, and the critical role the songs play, not only to the stories but to audiences as well. Finally, Elmer looks at the theme parks and resorts, Fandom and cosplay, and the most recent movement of "girl power". Elmer notes the aforementioned change from helpless females needing saving to their contemporary counterparts who "save themselves" instead of waiting for someone to do it for them.
Elmer takes a comprehensive look at the franchise as a whole as well as breaks down the individual components that make Disney animation and their Princesses unique. She marries facts with conjecture in order to present the reader with a full picture of the subject matter while sometimes giving her opinion. The combination of all the components makes for a compelling picture and an interesting read.
The cover artwork, a close-up of what looks like Cinderella's face bathed in vibrant, blue coloring, is eye-catching. It would make a striking addition to any coffee table or bookshelf and is a must-buy for the Disney fan in your life. After all, there are only about two months left until Christmas arrives!
Purchase a copy of Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara today from Amazon.com.
This release has been provided to FlickDirect for review purposes.
