Why Doesn't Disney Make a Black Maleficent?

The question of why Disney doesn't often feature diverse casts in their adaptations has been a topic of debate for years. One such character that has sparked this discussion is Maleficent. Let's explore the reasons behind Disney's choices and the broader implications of diversification in storytelling.

The Case for Cultural Appropriateness and Historical Accuracy

Disney adaptations, by their very nature, often stick to the cultural and historical contexts of their original stories. In the case of Maleficent, the original fairy tale depicted a world where the majority of characters were ostensibly white. To deviate from this original setting would involve significant creative and storytelling hurdles. The adaptation in Maleficent (2014) starring Angelina Jolie retains this historical and cultural setting for a few reasons, including the audience's familiarity with the original narrative and Disney's desire to stay true to the source material.

Another factor is the sensitivity surrounding cultural appropriation. When a film involves taking a character from a different cultural background and placing them in a different time or setting, it can raise concerns about accurately representing that culture. While Maleficent (2014) portrayed the character with a shade that fit the green forest-themed environment, casting a black actor in the role could have been seen as an attempt to remake a story rather than simply a retelling, leading to potential backlash and criticism.

The NPR Controversy and Audience Preferences

A notable controversy within the entertainment industry, as highlighted in a popular NPR article, refers to the casting of Halle Bailey in the live-action Little Mermaid. The choice was seen as a step towards more diverse representation, as the original story was set in a very specific cultural context. The same reasoning could be applied to a potential recasting of Maleficent, but with more delicate and complex considerations because the character is not rooted in any one specific time or culture.

Disney's approach to retelling stories, such as Maleficent, involves a balance between honoring the existing narrative and weaving in contemporary social and cultural values. This is a difficult tightrope to walk, and any deviation from the established setting and cast parameters could result in audience dissatisfaction. Additionally, the overwhelming preference for the original portrayal of Maleficent in Maleficent (2014) suggests that a change in casting could potentially alienate fans of the movie.

Making Room for Diverse Stories

While the retelling of Maleficent has yet to see a black protagonist, Disney has shown a significant push towards creating narratives that center around diverse groups. This approach, known as diversewashing, is a controversial and often criticized practice in mainstream Hollywood. The concern is that it can serve as little more than a marketing ploy without substantial changes in the underlying story or character development.

Disney's recent forays into diverse storytelling, such as the New Little Mermaid, demonstrate an effort to align their narratives with contemporary social expectations without necessarily altering the core elements of the story. This direction can be seen as a safer and more profitable move, especially in a cultural climate where audiences are demanding more representation and diversity in their entertainment choices.

The question of whether or not Disney should make a black Maleficent remains open. However, the considerations of cultural appropriateness, historical accuracy, and the potential backlash must be carefully weighed. For now, the world of Maleficent remains rooted in its original, predominantly white cultural setting, with the possibility of reconsideration in the future if and when the right narrative and cast align.