Introduction
This week I continued working on the chapters of discussion and wrote about the exploration of marginalized themes.
Thesis Proposal
Chapters of Discussion
5. Exploration of Marginalized Themes
Animated media is an important agent of socialization, through which emotional, social, and cognitive development is influenced. Watching films can be an avenue through which people are exposed to experiences different than their own, can explore their feelings regarding a situation, and can broaden their personal perspectives (Tenzek and Nickels, 2017). Other research indicates films can be used to help develop empathy and compassion for others (Walker, 2014). By telling stories with unique themes Pixar is promoting empathy and making people feel heard and seen.
5.1 Personal and Progressive Themes
Pixar is known for bringing unique stories which challenge stereotypes. The film, Turning Red, explores the theme of open discussions about everyday experiences of menstruation in women, in a way that does not shame or stigmatize them. It also sheds light on the hormonal changes that come with puberty, through the eyes of a confident young girl. It shows female puberty as something to be embraced, rather than embarrassed about. Similarly, movies like Brave, Turning Red, Luca, and Finding Nemo shed light on intergenerational trauma, family relationships, and obsessive parenting. These movies give us a message to be gentle with ourselves and with the ones in our care. These are the topics that are hardly discussed in the media but Pixar has always gone a few steps ahead than the others to bring the stories that are more personal.
5.2 Identity and Belonging
Like personal themes, Pixar films have consistently explored themes of identity and belonging, offering narratives that relate to the audience. Toy Story talks about these themes from the perspective of toys that are struggling to find their place and purpose in the world. Characters like Woody and Buzz navigate feelings of friendship and acceptance, highlighting the universal desire to be included and accepted.
Unlike most of animated films, Pixar films often showcase the complexities of identity formation and the search for belonging. Through their powerful stories, Pixar puts emphasis on embracing our true selves, celebrating diversity, exploring their roots, and finding connections with others.
5.3 Mental Health and Emotional Well-being
Pixar films have made significant contributions to addressing mental health and well-being by deep diving into character psychology. Films like Inside Out provide vivid representations of the complexities of emotions and convey the message of embracing ourselves. By portraying characters struggling with anxiety, loss, and depression Pixar creates narratives that relate to audiences of all ages. Finding Nemo touches upon themes of loss, anxiety, and the journey toward healing. It portrays the challenges faced by Marlin, the overprotective father, as he navigates his fears and learns to trust and let go.
Though Pixar has been applauded for showing the themes of mental health and emotional well-being beautifully, there is always room for further exploration of stories with different mental health challenges and experiences.
5.4 Environmental Awareness
Like other animation studios, Pixar has discussed the environment and climate change through its films highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship. In Finding Dory, Pixar talks about the need to save the fragile ecosystem of marine life and their habitats. Similarly, the film franchise Cars shed light on the theme of pollution and resource depletion, encouraging viewers to reconsider their carbon footprint. Moreover, the film WALL-E explores the dystopian future of Earth due to environmental degradation.
Through these films, Pixar creates awareness and promotes a sense of responsibility among the people to make conscious decisions in order to save the environment. By using the power of storytelling and animation, Pixar has the power to inspire audiences to bring positive climate-friendly change in their lives.