From Dumbo to Nemo:
Disability Stereotypes &
Representation over
60 years in Disney
Animated Films
Stephanie R. Thompson
University of Cincinnati
Theoretical Framework for Analysis
Socio-Historical Context combined with Critical
Theory for the basis of the analysis
Comparisons
DUMBO
• Clown
• Noticeable Physical
Disability
• Mother Taken Away From
Him
• Racial Minorities Help Him
“Overcome”
– Magic Feather
• Moves From “Circus Freak”
to “Super Crip”
NEMO
• Clownfish
• Noticeable Physical
Disability
• Taken Away From His Father
• Other Characters with
Disabilities Help Him
“Overcome”
– Escape to the Ocean Plan
• Moves From “Pitied/Overprotected” to “Super Crip”
The Introduction and Continuation of
Overcoming Disabilities
“The very things that held you
down are going to carry you up
and up and up!” - Timothy
Supporting Cast is the Major Difference
…And They Lived
Happily
Ever After?