Hist. 389

#7 Parodies of Fairytales replacing the classics?

March 16, 2010 at 7:00 pm (Uncategorized)

I am sure we are all aware of the uprising of parodies of our classic fairytales from Disney and other animation companies. The first time I recall being introduced to parodies was in the first Shrek in 2001 where a hideous green monster appeared and threw the animation realm into chaos. They focused on mocking handsome princes and damsels saved themselves, and the outcast fairy tale creatures such as ogres were shown in a different light where you can relate to the character and begin to like them. 

Here is a clip demonstarting Shrek verision of the princess: 

  This different way of looking at classic fairytales opened up many doors for animation within the next few years the following parodies were released; Shrek 2 in 2004, Hoodwinked in 2005, Happily N’Ever After in 2007.  Shrek the third 2007, Enchanted in 2007 and Happily N’Ever After 2 2009. 

 Take a minute to think about this, these movies are thought to be marketing to children for the cute animation and cartoon like behavior or is this simply a cover up for adults to have an excuse for watching cartoons? I am aware that the movie is made for the whole family but majority of the parodies and humor go right over the children heads. The idea of a parody is making fun of things we already know and understand. But, only adults have this wide understanding of Disney’s classics to be able to understand the humor in these parodies. 

 If the reason most parents encourage watching the parodies with their children because it will be stimulating for the adults then are those parodies exposing our children before, or instead of, the originals? When it comes to these parodies the children have not heard of many of the fables mention and therefore classic such as Puss in Boots or also known as Master Cat; which was a French literary fairy tale will only be known as by younger generations as a Latin speaking sidekick of Shrek. Where did the French roots go and will children ever know of its roots? 

Also, take a look how Happily N’Ever After 2 look at the parody of Snow White; 

In conclusion, I love the parodies as an adult but I am worried the messages that are being portrayed to children that have not been around the orginal fairytales. Is this going to replace all the classics for the younger generation? I know this won’t be the first time this has happened but it is a shame. 

commented on  Rebecca M Townsend and  Emily L Witt.