SNOW WHITE
A film review by Jon A. Webb
Copyright 1993 Jon A. Webb
This is a re-release of the classic film, which I believe was the first full-length cartoon film ever made. The image has been restored via computer processing, so this is the first chance modern audiences have had to see the film as it was first released.
First, on the imagery: it is impressive, but I wouldn't go to see it just for that reason. This is a restoration. The colors are brighter than I remember, the edges sharper, but that is all. (In fact, it's nice that Disney showed respect for the original and didn't try to "enhance" it a la Ted Turner colorizing.)
Second, on the movie itself. It this era when attitudes toward women have changed so much and are still in a state of flux, it is a little offensive to see women portrayed as they are here (as Ellen Goodman pointed out in a recent column). There are two women in the film: one is evil and vain, the other is childish, good, hard-working (she cooks and cleans), and unable to fend for herself without a man's support (or at least seven dwarves). She is Nora of "A Doll's House": she moves from the castle to the dwarves' home to her prince with nothing in between, except for her prolonged sleep of death.
I can't get over how childish Snow White is. Her face is drawn with the shape of a girl of about eight to ten. Her voice is also about that old. Her attitudes towards the world correspond. But still, she is given to her prince in the end.
At least Disney has moved to older girls over the years. Ariel is a prepubescent teenager, and she shows a little independence.
I took my daughter to see this because I want her to know about classic films. I'm not sorry I did it, because she is exposed to all sorts of role models. But I do agree with Ellen Goodman; this film would have a negative impact if it was taken seriously. Better make sure you also show your daughter women working and fiction like THE WIZARD OF OZ, PIPPI LONGSTOCKINGS, and ELOISE.
-- J
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