A new essay written by Merlin Jones details the common themes between Walt Disney films such as Mary Poppins, Peter Pan, Pollyanna, The Three Lives of Thomasina, and Song of the South: “all center on the concept of a distant parental figure lost in the trappings of adult society.”
- “In his innocence, Johnny has no hang-ups about class, race, politics – he only knows that Uncle Remus has opened a Technicolor pathway to imagination with his storytelling – a connection to a vivid world of relevant feelings and ideas outside of Miss Sally’s preconceived notions. When Uncle Remus is forbidden to sidetrack Johnny with anymore of his stories, tragedy strikes as the boy tries to hang on to Uncle Remus and his dreams. It is only when the parents are confronted by the potential loss of their son do they realize what is truly important – finding their Laughing Place, the place they knew as children, the place they can share with Johnny as a family, together.”
I encourage everyone to read this excellent essay to help broaden their understanding of Walt’s vision for Song of the South and his other films discussed as well. Thanks to Tim Hauser for informing me of the article!