Children’s movies allow for a place to foster imagination, develop critical thinking skills, and learn about life lessons. However, these are not the only positives of kids’ movies. In recent years, movies have been a way for children to see cultural diversity and authentic representations of all kinds of people.
Why Representation Matters
The importance of representation runs deep. Children deserve genuine, authentic representation and acknowledgement. Kids can always benefit from discovering stories that do not directly reflect their own. These stories teach acceptance and inclusion, and allow for a better understanding of the world around them. There was never room for problematic portrayals of any group, so we must not let those that did slip through the cracks continue to flourish. Instead, we should uplift movies that are made with good intentions and feature ethnic and cultural diversity. Here is a list of some of the best culturally representative children’s and family films of the 21st century.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
Big Hero 6 is a 2014 film that follows Hiro Hamada, a boy living in San Fransokyo, (the fictional hybrid of San Francisco and Tokyo). Elements of both cities are present, with many Japanese features being highlighted. This film follows themes of found family, overcoming loss, and empathy.
Coco (2017)
Coco is a fantasy movie that gives its audience a fun, yet heartwarming portrayal of familial love, relationships, and the importance of tradition and honoring your loved ones. It centers Dia de los Muertos, and is set in Mexico.
Encanto (2021)
This musical Disney movie appeals to children through its bright colors, singing and dancing, and immersive experience. However, it is so much more. Encanto explores themes of Colombian culture through the importance of music, family, and celebration.
Hidden Figures (2016)
This 2016 film gained traction through its telling of three brilliant Black women who work at NASA, detailing their journey through the exploration of the intersectionality between gender and race. Its key themes center around perseverance, education, and black excellence.
Moana (2016)
Moana made a cultural impact through its following of a Polynesian princess. This film depicts the power of determination, following your heart, and identity while also exploring ancestral traditions.
Ponyo (2008)
Ponyo is a Studio Ghibli film that features a young goldfish princess who wants nothing more than to become human. This movie takes place in Japan, and themes of Shintoism and Buddhism are present throughout the film. The beloved classic The Little Mermaid inspires this beautiful story.
Soul (2020)
Soul is a fantasy film that Pixar released in 2020, breaking barriers with its inclusion of the studio’s first black main character. This movie follows Joe through his passion of jazz music, and sets the precedent that we should all live our lives how we please, and enjoy all the moments, big or small.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an action movie that sheds light on important topics like finding your identity, navigating life under pressure, and building individuality. This film executes this while also celebrating the main character, Miles’ Afro-Latino and black identity.
Turning Red (2022)
Turning Red is a comedy movie that follows a young girl named Mei, who faces challenges surrounding her identity and her relationship with her mother while she navigates puberty. The film includes Chinese heritage and its implications for the main character, as well as themes of love, friendship, and family.
The Direction of Progress
There is no doubt that these movies are great, but there is always room for more. Continuing to uplift stories with cultural diversity will lead to acceptance, feeling seen, and an understanding for cultures other than your own.