On December 11, 2011 Disney produced its first Black princess in  The Princess and the Frog. The movie is a great coming of age movie for those of all races and skin tones. Not only is the movie absolutely amazing, it also focuses on real life issues in the world today. 

The movie is set in the Louisiana in the 60’s and includes many racial inferences, especially at the opening of the movie. It shows the difference between Tiana and her White best friend Lottie, especially in the way they live. Lottie is rich and lives in a mansion while Tiana is on the poorer side and lives in a small neighborhood. The movie breaks down the stereotype that white people and black people couldn’t be friends, especially best friends, in such a segregated time. 

Tianna is also the first princess to be shown with an actual job. This in itself is great for younger kids to see because it shows that no matter where you come from you can achieve greatness at any level. As previously mentioned, Tianna is the first black Disney princess. While this may seem small or inadequate, this is such a huge deal. Watching this movie while growing up as a little Black girl gave not only me, but millions of other Black girls as well, hope that they too can do what they set their minds to. 

Many people, especially parents, may find issues with this movie because one of the main things showcased in this movie is voodoo, which goes against some people’s beliefs and religion. While it does showcase the voodoo the movie’s deeper meaning and the way it inspires people worldwide outshines the evil. At the end of the movie, Tianna stops the voodoo alluding to the idea that she knows it’s wrong and doesn’t want to use it for her selfish desires.

 I would recommend this movie to any and everyone because of what it represents. It shows that people don’t need riches to make their dream come true. Tianna is also one of the few princesses that isn’t completely reliant on a man. She showcases women’s empowerment that we can do anything that we set our heart and mind to no matter what struggles may lie ahead.