When looking at the list of Disney moms, there really aren't that many to talk about. Disney is well known for killing off their protagonists' parents in their animated films (it's dark, we know). The mothers that are alive are pretty much brushed off to the side (just look at the mothers of Aurora, Rapunzel, Mulan, and Hercules), so they don't help us much when we want to celebrate mother's day. There are the few exceptions, of course, (Mrs. Jumbo, Mrs. Incredible, Bambi's mom *oh great, now I'm sobbing*) but we'll touch base on this later in the week.
Still, one has to wonder how do these young characters grow up to heroes? The majority are adopted! Here is a list of my favorite Disney adoptive mothers. In honor of these lovely ladies , I styled their modern-day outfits because, well, why the heck not? The Three Good Fairies (Sleeping Beauty, 1959)
For the protection of the princess, this trio took young Aurora and posed as her aunts in a woodland hideaway. Giving up their magical powers during this task, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather raise her until she is sixteen. Though we don't get much of what Aurora became (since we only see her sing, dance, throw a fit, and sleep), the fairies were quite loyal to the royal family, especially when they clearly miss their powers. The sweetest moment? When they are reminiscing about Aurora childhood while preparing for her birthday party. I love how Fauna is holding the cake batter like an infant!
Alcmena (Hercules, 1997)
Always wanting a child Alcmena, along with Amphytryon, immediately adopt the young Hercules. Great timing too, because the young god would have died at the hands of Hades' henchmench if the couple hadn't come along. Clearly a sweet, nurturing pair, Alcmena and Amphytryon raised a good man. Happy ending: Herc decides to stay on earth and is seen hugging his Earth parents while waving to Zeus and Hera (we all know that did not happen in the Greek version).
Aunt Cass (Big Hero 6, 2014)
The movie begins with us finding out that Hiro and Tadashi's parents passed away years ago and Aunt Cass adopted them. We instantly love her since she's scolding them after their arrest, just like any parent would. As their guardian, she still feels out of her element, but we know she is clearly trying. Not because she has to, but because she loves them. Maybe a little clueless, but still wonderfully charming. With her encouragement, Hiro ends up going to college and becoming more than what Tadashi would have ever hoped him to be. She has climbed the list of great Disney parents.
Nani (Lilo & Stitch, 2002)
Not only does Nani have to tuck away her grief of losing her parents, but she is instantly forced into the parental role. She is trying so hard for her little sister, Lilo, but life just seems to trip her up. They bicker and fight, but it does not change the deep bond between them. It's heart-wrenching when Lilo says "I like you better as a sister than a mom". Still, Nani does her very best to take care of troubled Lilo. Her little sister becomes her whole life, which is exactly what a child becomes to a parent. You can't help but tear up when Nani frantically begs for Lilo not to be taken away from her. "I'm the only one who understands her! You take that away, she won't stand a chance!" In that moment, every mother knows exactly how Nani feels. Nani's world revolves around Lilo, and it is apparent throughout the whole film.
Kala (Tarzan, 1999)
Kala is totally my number one. Tarzan would have died if it weren't for her! While mourning the loss of her first born, Kala was quick to adopt the little human. She didn't fear the unknown and taught Tarzan how to make himself the best "gorilla" he could be, no matter what he looked like. From Sabor to Kerchek, Kala never stopped fighting for her son. Not to mention, her song "You'll Be in My Heart" makes me want to hug my kids super tight.
Who would you add to this list? Comment below!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
