The Walt Disney Effect: Where Does the Magic Begin?

The Walt Disney Effect: Where Does the Magic Begin?

By Ajmaanie Andre

Disney had embedded itself into the hearts of many for decades since its original release of the iconic short animated film in 1928, Steamboat Willie. This very film showcased Mickey Mouse and would mark the start of a powerful empire built on the idea that Disney is where “dreams come true.”  

As a matter of fact, Disney has always marketed itself as a place built on a paradise kingdom of enjoyment and happiness. Every child probably remembers the feeling of awe and wonder that filled their hearts as they watched a Disney animated film or visited the theme parks. Little do they know that, even into the age of adulthood, Disney will always trail behind.

Were you ever too old for Disney in the first place?

The short answer is no, one can never be too old for Disney. With the way Disney has marketed itself, even at an older age people are still drawn to the magic that the entertainment conglomerate has to offer the general public.

For many, Disney is an escape—an escape back to simpler times. People associate Disney with happy times and, when people think of those happy times, they are more likely to want to come back to experience the thrill all over again.

Disney has a well established brand that allows them to continually build upon and further cement their place as leaders of an empire.

Every move ever made by the company is a strategy 

Adults and people of all ages have Disney collections, and some people make it their whole personality. A lot of Disney animated series have jokes and themes that are not necessarily targeted at children, making it seem like Disney purposefully makes it that way. Even into the later years, due to this, they still feel that connection with these shows and movies that are usually meant for a younger demographic.

How has Disney been able to successfully capture the hearts and wallets of the general public for decades?

To understand how Disney was able to capture the heart of millions you’d have to look back to how Disney has been able to consistently market themselves as 

Disney definitely knows who their audience is and what they want to see. This multi billion dollar industry isn’t always the first to be innovative but, when it comes to noticing trends in the media, they have a time and place for everything. 

Disney seems to be constantly paying attention to what trends and patterns their audience like and don’t like everytime they push out a new movie. If it’s a representation that they need, Disney already has a couple films and projects lined up that will definitely pack a punch. This is definitely noticeable, going as far back as 2009, when Disney made Princess Tiana — their first Black princess. By knowing its audience, the company has been able to meet the needs and wishes of the ever-growing fan base with no endgame in sight.

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