Disney Blog Page

Bringing More Cultures to the Big Screen

Let’s talk about the heroes leading the way. Encanto wasn’t just a movie about magic—it was a love letter to Colombian culture, from the music to the way Abuela runs the family. Raya and the Last Dragon blended traditions from across Southeast Asia to create a world inspired by real communities. And Black Panther? It redefined what a superhero movie could be, bringing Afrofuturism into the mainstream and showing that representation isn’t just important—it’s powerful.

But here’s the thing: authenticity matters. That’s why we work with cultural consultants, historians, and people from the communities we’re portraying. When Mirabel sings about not living up to expectations, when Kamala Khan balances superhero duties with family traditions when Miles Morales throws on his suit and says, “Anyone can wear the mask”—those moments land because they’re built on real experiences.

Disney+ Expands the Story

Movies can only show so much. That’s where Disney+ comes in. It lets us tell longer, deeper stories with more voices. Ms. Marvel introduced audiences to Kamala Khan, a Pakistani-American teen who loves superheroes as much as you do—and struggles with identity just like so many of us. Andor turned the Star Wars universe into a complex, layered story about rebellion and sacrifice, featuring characters from different walks of life. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder came back with the same humor and heart but an even stronger focus on what it’s really like to grow up in a diverse world.

These stories don’t just exist for the sake of diversity. They exist because they matter. They’re stories that haven’t been told enough, and we’re making sure they get the spotlight they deserve.

Who’s Telling the Story Matters, Too

It’s not just about what you see on screen. It’s about who’s behind the camera. More diverse creators—writers, directors, animators, and designers—are shaping Disney stories than ever before. We’re working with filmmakers from different backgrounds to make sure every story feels true to the people it represents.

Turning Red came straight from the heart of director Domee Shi, who poured her personal experiences as a Chinese-Canadian into the story. Black Panther was brought to life by Ryan Coogler and a majority-Black cast and crew. Behind every moment you love, there’s a team making sure it feels real.

Why It All Matters

This isn’t about trends. It’s about telling the best stories. The ones that feel real. The ones that make you laugh, cry, and see the world in a new way. The ones where, for the first time, you feel like the hero.

And we’re not stopping here. More stories are coming. More voices, more perspectives, more magic. Because the world is full of stories waiting to be told—and you deserve to see yourself in them.