Movie Review: The Princess & The Frog Is A Wonderful Movie!!!

Yesterday, Eileen and I saw the Disney film “The Princess & The Frog” in downtown Toronto at the AMC theatre. I arrived at the theatre a bit late. We were supposed to see the film at 4:00pm but we caught the next screening at 5:00pm.

Of course, everyone knows “The Princess & The Frog” is Disney’s first film with a black princess. I am so impressed with the storytelling, the subtle ways Disney discussed the issues of race & class.

I also like the  romance between Prince Naveen and Princess Tiana. I admit I was wrong, it doesn’t matter that Naveen is not black the point is Naveen loved Tiana. The idea that love should have no colour barrier. I think I allowed the controversy to cloud my judgment.

The movie is set in the 1920s, in New Orleans. The  Disney animators did an an excellent job of discussing the underling social issues of the 1920s.

For instance, Tiana’s good friend Charlotte is a rich, spoiled, white girl she lives in a mansion. However, Tiana lives with her family in a modest house in a segregated neighborhood. Tiana’s works two jobs because she wants to open her own restaurant. Tiana is turned down for a mortgage due to racism.

Meanwhile, Prince Naveen arrives in New Orleans and he is a playboy, his family has cut him off of his inheritance. Prince Naveen is tricked by the villain Dr. Facilier also known as the “Shadow Man”. Naveen is tricked by Dr. Facilier and he is  turned into a frog. Prince Naveen convinces Tiana to kiss him but she’s turns into a frog too. Naveen and Tiana travel to the bayou  in search of a mysterious old voodoo priestess her name is  Mama Odie.

Mama Odie she  is a wise old woman  Naveen & Tiana seek her help because they want to become human again. Mama Odie tells Tiana and Naveen that the secret is within themselves. Along the way, Naveen and Tiana meet Louis the Alligator and Raymond the firefly. The movie is predictable, but I love the music, the storyline, romance, and the comedy.