Guys, Disney actually did something right?

Image via @unsplsh

So Disney released a new short film called “Reflect” and it’s gone viral because it’s… actually inclusive? 

The short follows Bianca, a plus-size ballerina, who battles body dysmorphia and overcomes her insecurities by pursuing her passion and finding strength in herself. Shockingly (but actually not really at all), Bianca acts as Disney’s first plus-size lead character, and “Reflect” has received many positive reactions and praise as a result. Because let’s be honest, it’s a bit out of character for Disney to successfully portray a diverse character in a positive light – if Disney’s countless whitewashed princess films that absolutely butcher different ethnic cultures are any indication. But we digress.

“Reflect” is an important portrayal of body positivity that acknowledges toxic beauty standards and celebrates unique strength and self confidence. Just think of all the children who will watch this and feel seen. It almost makes you think that maybe Disney isn’t so bad after all. Or are they? 

“Reflect” has also garnered it’s fair share of criticism. Because the story revolves around a plus-size character feeling insecure about her body, some have pointed out that the film only perpetuates stereotypes, reducing the character to her body type. And this is true – plus-size people are normal people who live normal lives. Why should their first ever major representation on Disney screens revolve around being insecure and different? Some people just want to see plus-sized characters pursuing things like ballet, without feeling out of place and wrong. 

Needless to say, Disney is definitely a work in progress, and their films are far from perfect. But “Reflect” is a huge step in the right direction, and it gives us hope that the trend of diverse representation in film will continue, until it becomes the norm – as it should be.