Friday, December 11, 2009

Christians and the Princess and the Frog



It is only natural that we talk about animation on an art blog seeing as I am a former film major. Well, being an african american, but Christian first I was really disappointed to read how much the occult is featured in the Princess and the Frog. So for those interested I have made a list while I am THRILLED at the prospect of a African American Princess i dunno? I think I might have to pass. Let me know your thoughts?

wonderful review below link

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/movies/reviews/2009/princessandfrog.html

My concerns.....

1. Where as the other Disney films normally feature some sort of magic, cinderella etc. generally speaking no one can buy a magic wand and really make it work. Unless your a real witch I suppose. But there is harm but NO real threat (albeit against the Bible,) showing some random poofs and magic wands to try to make your story work . Ok I get it, there are not 'miracles' in the secular movie world.

2. the use of the Occult is very tangible in this film from what I hear. Even though the character using the "roots" is inheritantly evil, being and having roots in the south I am very aware of the nature and the DANGER of things that happen in marshy, occult driven areas..I.E. (santeria etc) it is very REAL and I felt a sense of EVIL I didn't like. I still not sure I want to expose myself or kids to that type of thing unless there is some lesson involved. What happens to the witch doctor at the end..i'm does he 'repent'. this guy is not a fairy god mother which we know isn't REAL but a spiritual 'griot' of sorts and his use of the occult is very prevalent in the flick. the fact that it is set in new Orleans and that this is not in never never land. the idea of the film's 'witchdoctor' talking about 'spirits' he is congering up to "deliver them souls" is VERY disturbing and the use of Tarot cards and other things(ceremonies etc) which can spark a childs interest to see what it's about are very concerning. I dunno I'd have to really pray about it. The directors I'm sure wanted to be true to life, and they are..no fantasy here.

3. It might actually scare young child. I have enough demons to cast out as it is, who needs more. "in the name of Jesus, that is" Who needs more nightmares or other problems.

4. the devil is sneaky and knows African Americans have been waiting a long time. While I will fault no one who doesn't feel convicted by this film, even though packaged BEAUTIFULLY, I think I'll pass, at least for right now. Sounds a little demonic. Perhaps their will be some Christian animated flicks about princesses, most already features African Americans already. Perhaps we are ahead of the game. I'll let you know if I change my mind.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

ART NEWS

Maya Freelon Asante is a baltimore based artist who has recented won studio space in the Bromo Setlzer Arts Tower Sponsored by the Baltimore Promotion of the Arts, the Open Studio day is this Saturday if interested in stopping by to see work and the artists studios. I am not sure if she will be there on Saturday the 5th but it's worth checking out.


LinkWithin

Blog Widget by LinkWithin