A Crushing Weight: Examining Disney’s Family Dynamics in Encanto

Abstract

The 2021 release of Disney’s Encanto was a magical surprise for viewers worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. The memorable songs and engaging animation helped the film solidify its place as one of the most popular animated films in Disney’s prestigious library. This article discusses Encanto’s divergence from the all too familiar themes in Disney narratives, allowing the film to explore anxieties that can arise under the weight of familial expectations. Through comparison to the equally popular Disney film Frozen, this piece analyzes the power behind the lyrics of Encanto’s music that offers its audiences a mindful and refreshing experience.