Graduation Year

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

M.A.

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Degree Granting Department

Mass Communications

Major Professor

Mildred Perreault, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Kelli Burns, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Travis Bell, Ph.D.

Keywords

Disney, Feminism, Gender, Live-action

Abstract

The lyric “Well, that sounds an awful lot like princess problems” from Snow White (2025) reflects Disney’s evolving portrayal of its princesses as more self-aware and independent. This shift is echoed in earlier live-action adaptations, such as Beauty and the Beast (2017), where Belle’s longing for “adventure in the great wide somewhere” signals her rejection of a limited, traditional role. Guided by Feminist Film Theory and media framing, this study examines how Disney’s rebranding of princess characters in Beauty and the Beast (2017), The Little Mermaid (2023), and Snow White (2025) reflects contemporary ideals of empowerment. Through narrative content and thematic analyses of the films and their promotional materials, this research explores how these rebranded characters communicate modern values and resonate with audiences. Disney’s brand is one that has consistently appealed to a variety of audiences, while adjusting its approach and being proactive and reactive to changes in society.

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