Introduction to Disney's 'Tangled' and 'Rapunzel'

Disney's 2010 animated film Tangled is a captivating adaptation of the beloved fairy tale first told by the Brothers Grimm. This article explores the numerous differences between the original story of Rapunzel and the modern Disney interpretation, shedding light on aspects such as plot, character development, and visual storytelling.

The Plot and Themes

Rapunzel, the older tale, is a straightforward narrative that highlights themes of innocence, captivity, and the risks of unchecked desires. It maintains a somewhat darker tone, with an emphasis on the consequences of actions. In contrast, Tangled takes a more adventurous and humorous approach, with a focus on freedom, the horrors of captivity, and the development of characters' personalities. The film delves into the hero's journey, showcasing Rapunzel's bravery, creativity, and determination to pursue her dreams.

Character Development

In the original Rapunzel, the titular character is passive, primarily defined by her beauty and given situation. This portrayal leaves little room for personal agency. However, Tangled presents a more dynamic Rapunzel, with rich internal and external development. Her dreams, creativity, and bravery are explored in depth, making her a more relatable and complex character.

Flynn Rider, the protagonist's companion inTangled, undergoes significant character development, but he also brings his own backstory and growth. This contrasts starkly with the original tale, which lacks the depth and backstories of the supporting characters. In contrast, Tangled introduces a rich and multilayered cast, including Pascal the chameleon and Maximus the horse, who provide additional humor and narrative depth.

Artistic Style and Visual Themes

Tangled stands out with its vibrant and unique visual style, blending elements of CGI with traditional animation techniques. This fusion creates a visually stunning and imaginative world. In contrast, the originalRapunzel stories are typically illustrated with various artistic styles, often focusing on moral and cautionary elements. This approach tends to be more illustrative rather than immersive in the animated aspect.

Supporting Characters and Story Structure

The originalRapunzel story has fewer supporting characters, with the narrative primarily revolving around the mother, the witch, and the prince. Tangled, however, introduces a rich ensemble cast, enhancing the story's depth and emotional impact. These characters contribute humor and character development, making the film more engaging and broad in its appeal.

Innovations in Modern Retelling

Tangled reimagines the traditional tale of Rapunzel in a way that is both familiar and fresh. One key change is the princess's background: in the original story, the heroine is a descendant of peasants, while in Tangled, she is a princess. This change adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the social status differences and the magical elements of the story.

Key Differences in World Building

Another significant change lies in the rationale behind Rapunzel's captivity. In the original, the witch, Dame Gothel, or Mother Gothel, traps Rapunzel because she is her own daughter, nefariously hoarding her for her own immortal youth. In Tangled, the magical flower that offers eternal youth and health is the reason for Gothel's actions. The flower is reduced to a mere tool in her hands to protect her own beauty instead of a daughter.

Character Dynamics

Initially, in both versions, a young man finds Rapunzel in the tower. However, in the original story, he is a prince, whereas in Tangled, he is a thief and con artist named Flynn Rider. This character switch alters the dynamics of the relationship, making it more complex and unpredictable.

Revelations and Conflicts

The revelations that punctuate each tale also differ. In the original, Rapunzel's initial mistake reveals the truth about the prince, leading to a complicated end. In Tangled, the truth is revealed through a series of clues and interactions, leading to a more protracted and dramatic climax. These differences highlight the different storytelling techniques and emotional volume required for each narrative.

Heroine's Journey

The ending of each narrative showcases a significant transformation. In the original, the prince blinds himself to reunite with the princess, leading to a bittersweet resolution. In Tangled, the climax involves a more direct conflict between Rapunzel and Mother Gothel, leading to the latter's death and the heroine's restoration as a princess. This change reflects a more optimistic and active protagonist, in line with modern storytelling trends.

Conclusion

Disney's adaptation of the classic tale of Rapunzel in Tangled demonstrates a bold departure from the original narrative. This modern reimagining offers a richer, more dynamic story, characterized by deeper character development and a more vibrant visual style. Tangled not only pays homage to the original tale but also stands as a testament to the power of imagination and creative storytelling.