It’s very clear that the Walt Disney Company of today looks quite different than it ever has before. A growing list of productions that reflect our diverse world, including films, television shows and experiences at the theme parks, is helping to hold a mirror up and inspire. Look no further than “Encanto,” the company’s latest animated feature, which is centered around (very specifically) a Colombian family and has become a worldwide phenomenon.
“Bridging the Gap,”Disney+ has launched a new digital episodic show that is focused on diversity. “aims to find common threads and themes of connection across various cultures, ethnicities, genders, religions and sexual orientations through immersive conservations among filmmakers, animators, creatives and talent.”Brea Baker, activist and cultural commentator, hosts the discussion.
The first episode. “The Balancing Act,”You can only watch it below. It focuses on “Raya and the Last Dragon,”How the movie’s creators were influenced by their first- and second-generation American experiences. After today’s episode, other new episodes will premiere during Black History Month and around other relevant cultural events, exclusively on the Disney+ YouTube channel.
Baker stated in an official statement: “I am so excited to partner with Disney+ and host this series of discussions celebrating the diverse talent behind stories that have impacted culture and pushed representation. For me, Bridging the Gap is about stepping out of the echo chamber. I can’t wait to explore the common threads which unite us and spark deeper reflection on how we build a better world.” Trevor Kelley, Disney+’s SVP of Marketing, added (in an official statement): “This great new digital series was born out of the real admiration we have for the tremendous storytellers at this company. With ‘Bridging the Gap’ our team has created a new platform where we can highlight some of those incredible creatives and unveil how we are all connected through the magic of creativity and expression.”
With the array of diverse new projects coming from the company, everything from Pixar’s “Turning Red”The “Princess and the Frog”Baker and her guests will have plenty to talk about at the Splash Mountain-themed redo