Disney’s Strange World is the latest addition to the animated world of Disney. Created by Tomm Moore, the movie has been making waves for its inclusivity. The movie revolves around the adventures of a teenage girl named Fay and her friends, as they journey through a world of magic and fantasy. However, one character in Strange World, in particular, has been garnering a lot of attention – Ethan, the gay son of the main protagonist, Dr. Walter.
Who is Ethan?
Ethan is a teenage boy who is the son of Dr. Walter – Fay’s father. Ethan’s character in Strange World has been receiving critical acclaim for his representation of an LGBTQ+ character in a Disney animated film. Unlike many other LGBTQ+ characters in media, Ethan’s sexuality is not presented as a plot device or a stereotype, but rather as a part of his identity, as it should be.
The significance of Ethan’s character
Ethan’s character in Strange World is a significant step for Disney and the animation industry as a whole. Historically, the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in children’s media has been either non-existent or minimal. However, with Strange World, Disney has taken a bold step in depicting an openly gay character in a way that acknowledges his sexuality but does not exploit it.
The significance of Ethan’s character lies in the fact that it is a step towards inclusivity and acceptance. Children who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community would see themselves represented in mainstream media, which could lead to a sense of validation and acceptance. It will also help children who do not identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community to understand and accept those who do.
The reaction to Ethan’s character
The addition of an openly gay character in a Disney animated film has not been without controversy. While many have praised the representation of Ethan’s character, others have criticized the decision. Some critics have argued that the character is being used as a way for Disney to pander to the LGBTQ+ community, while others have claimed that the character is not appropriate for a children’s movie.
However, the positive reception to Ethan’s character has been overwhelming. Parents and children alike have praised Disney for creating a character that is relatable and inclusive. Ethan’s character represents a step forward for the animation industry and a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance.
Conclusion
Strange World’s depiction of an openly gay character is a significant moment for the animation industry and Disney. The inclusion of Ethan’s character is reflective of a shift in society’s attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community. Children who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community can finally see themselves represented in mainstream media, and this could lead to a sense of acceptance and validation.
The addition of Ethan’s character has also sparked a much-needed conversation about representation in children’s media. While there is still a long way to go, the inclusion of Ethan’s character in Strange World shows that progress is being made and that representation matters.
FAQ
Who is Disney’s first gay character?
Over the years, Disney has received criticism for the lack of diversity in their characters, particularly in terms of representation of the LGBTQ+ community. However, in recent years, Disney has made an effort to become more inclusive in its films, and in 2022, the company released their first animated film with a gay lead character.
The film “Strange World”, released on November 23, 2022, features Ethan Clade as the first gay lead character in a Disney animated film. Ethan is a young high school student who finds himself transported to a strange world where nothing is as it seems. Throughout the film, he navigates his way through various challenges and meets a range of interesting characters, including a group of rebels who are fighting against a wicked queen.
What makes Ethan unique is that he is portrayed as being openly gay, which is a major step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in Disney films. In the past, LGBTQ+ characters in Disney films were often relegated to subtext or mere hints in scenes or dialogues, but Ethan’s character was explicitly written as a gay character. This is an important step for Disney and for the wider film industry because it provides a positive representation of the LGBTQ+ community.
The voice actor who plays Ethan, Jaboukie Young-White, is a gay comedian who has a significant social media following. He has been vocal about the importance of representation in media, and he is a perfect choice to voice a character like Ethan. Jaboukie brings a level of authenticity to the role that would have been difficult for a straight actor to achieve.
Disney’S first gay character in an animated film is undoubtedly a significant milestone for the company and for the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream media. The inclusion of Ethan Clade as a gay character is a positive step towards more diverse representation in Disney’s films, and it is a clear indicator that the industry is taking steps towards greater inclusivity.
