Animated films and women: an evolving duo?

How has the relationship between animated films and women evolved over time? What roles do female characters occupy today, both on-screen and behind the scenes? Eleonora Benecchi, lecturer-researcher at the Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society of Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) and Director of the Bachelor in Communication discussed the subject during the radio programme "Alphaville", on Rete Due (RSI).

The portrayal of female characters on screen has evolved significantly over the years. For example, consider the contrast between Snow White, the central character of Disney's first animated film released in 1937, and the well-known Princess Elsa, one of the main characters in Disney's more recent film, Frozen. "Elsa challenges social expectations", explains Eleonora Benecchi, "by opposing the stereotypical image of a woman who finds happiness solely through love and sees falling in love as the ultimate fulfilment of her journey". The Ice Princess is not the first character to embody this evolution, which was already seen, for example, in Mulan. In both cases, it is evident that "the main character's goal is not solely to encounter a male character but rather to pursue a personal and independent mission".

It is likely due to this ability to understand emotions and trends amidst the turmoil that animated cinema cannot be regarded as an art form exclusively for children. "Animated cinema has not been exclusively for children for quite some time, and it perhaps never truly was. If we consider the first audiences who watched animated films, they were adults who went to theatres. The perception that cartoons are solely for children has changed significantly, partly due to the influence of Japanese animation. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, when Japanese animation made its way to Europe, it helped us understand that not all animated content is aimed at a young audience," commented Eleonora Benecchi.

While female characters on screen may appear to have gained more autonomy and independence, the reality "behind the scenes" is not as optimistic. As Eleonora Benecchi pointed out, there are still many steps to be taken to achieve a more equal situation. "In the field of animation, there is still little room for women. Many are involved in creating successful products but rarely in managerial or visible roles. Very few are entrusted with major projects. Moreover, this reflects a more general situation of gender imbalance that affects most of the creative industries".

The complete episode of "Alphaville" is available at the following link (Italian only).