Many Christians have a love-hate relationship with Disney movies. You may love many of the classics, but think certain themes are inappropriate for certain ages. Disney receives praise and criticism from many different sources because they have become so mainstream and have a lot of influence on children and teens. Parents may cringe at this and refuse to show Disney movies in their homes, but then find out their child saw Cinderella at a friend’s house. I’m not here to solve this debate, but I would like to highlight some of my favorite Disney characters that exhibit Christian qualities and discuss how movies can be used in a positive light.
"The Truth": 1 Peter 2:21 “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.”
10. Roger from One Hundred and One Dalmatians
Roger has a heart for his Dalmatian puppies even though he cannot afford to keep them. He fights for them and shows empathy and righteous anger because of Cruela de Ville’s ruthless pursuit of the puppies for her own gain. Not knowing what will happen, Roger risks a lot to save the puppies and ends up with more than he expected to care for.
9. Snow White
Snow White is a classic Disney movie and it shows a caring young woman who was forced to be an orphan because her step-mother became jealous after her talking mirror states that Snow White is more beautiful. After being cast out, Snow White was accepted by seven dwarves and looked out for them, dreaming that she would one day be reunited with her father.
8. Pocahontas
The story of Pocahontas is based on a true story and exemplifies a young lady who bravely and fearlessly stood up for what she believed was right. She even risked her own life to save John Smith, whom her father was trying to execute. Pocahontas is an example of the courage that Christians need to develop in order to face trials and tribulation.
7. Cinderella
Although Cinderella is horribly mistreated in her own home, she ends up taking it gracefully and keeps working hard and accepts her current situation. She eventually rises above her step-mother and evil step sisters, but repays their evil for good.
6. Ralph from Wreck-It Ralph
Ralph doesn’t like the person he has become or what his image portrays and works against the odds to change his life. His journey is difficult and initially the other game characters tell him that he is supposed to destroy because that is what he was created for. Ralph doesn’t lose hope and has to overcome one final trial in order to become victorious.
5. Anna from Frozen
Anna accepts the mistakes her sister Elsa has made and makes sure Elsa knows she loves her and cares about her. In the end, Anna dies to save Elsa, which reminds me of John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
4. Peter Pevensie from The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
Peter is a fearless leader who keeps fighting for what is right, even though he could easily give it up. He feels the hurt and pain of the animals and shows compassion and empathy for them. He also brings his siblings together to help prepare them for the trials they must endure.
3. Mister Geppetto from Pinocchio
Mister Geppetto loved Pinocchio as a son, accepted who he was and was in danger. The test of bravery and not giving up on Pinnochio ties in with God never giving up on His children. Christ will continuously search for us and wants us to be his Children.
2. Mulan
Never really fitting in with the other girls and what seems are the cultural norms, Mulan ends up secretly joining the army to take her father’s place. She is victorious, but has to be constantly vigilant in order to keep her secret safe, or face the death penalty. Mulan follows what she knows is true and faces trials head on with strength and courage.
1. Belle from Beauty and the Beast
Belle is a loveable character who treats everyone equally. She loves her father dearly and won’t fall into love with the prideful Gaston. Although she is trapped and experiences many fearful times, Belle shows tender, loving care to the Beast and all the servants. She is hardworking and is able to look past the physical appearance of the Beast, which changes both of their lives.
"The Truth": Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Discuss Movies as a Family
Whether or not you choose to watch Disney movies, you can take the opportunity to discuss the characters and their actions in any movie with your children. They may try to mimic behavior and it’s a great way to talk about how a person’s actions and affect others. Do you watch Disney movies as a family? If so, what are your favorite ones?
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