Why Do Disney and Other Companies Always Have to Change Stories to Make Them More Kid-Friendly?

Most companies, including Disney, cater to the preferences of the puritanically correct crowd and the large market for safe child-friendly material. Parents often want to leverage media as a babysitter, and the market has expanded to include children who need age-appropriate content. This need is evident in the approach of companies towards their audience.

The History of Disney and Kid-Friendly Content

From its earliest days, Walt Disney recognized the potential of cartoons and focused on making them a cornerstone of family entertainment. In his words:

"I have had a stubborn blind confidence in the cartoon medium a determination to show the skeptics that the animated cartoon was deserving of a better place that it was more than a mere ‘filler’ on the program, that it was more than a novelty, that it could be one of the greatest mediums of fantasy and entertainment yet developed.

Disney maintained this focus after Walt's death, and the company has continued to produce content that is suitable for children. However, more mature content was often created separately. This is where subsidiaries such as Touchstone Pictures and Hollywood Pictures played a role, producing adult-oriented content. Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox also handle R-Rated movies that are not aligned with Disney's children's content.

The Need for Modifications

Companies like Disney adapt stories to make them more kid-friendly because they cater to a broad audience, including both children and their parents. Original stories might contain themes, language, or scenes that are not suitable for younger viewers. By adapting these narratives, they ensure that the content aligns with family-friendly values and is appropriate for a younger audience.

For instance, the classic Disney animations, created primarily for preschoolers, are a stark contrast to more mature films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre or Saloan Kitty. While such films are not without merit, they are not typically associated with the Disney brand for good reason. However, this does not mean there is anything inherently wrong with these adult-centered films; it simply reflects their target audience.

Creating Balance and Enriching Content

By reimagining stories, Disney and other companies can infuse their content with vibrant visuals, engaging characters, and imaginative settings. These modifications help to enhance the entertainment value for a younger audience while also maintaining the essence of the original story.

While some purists may argue that changes alter the original intent of the stories, the primary aim is to create content that can be enjoyed by both children and their families. This approach helps to maintain a balance between preserving the core narrative and tailoring it for a younger demographic.

In conclusion, the necessity to modify stories for a younger audience arises from the need to cater to diverse tastes and preferences in the market. By doing so, companies like Disney can ensure that their content remains relevant and appealing across generations.