In 1947, The Walt Disney Company faced a daunting $4 million debt, jeopardizing its future after the financial setbacks of *Pinocchio*, *Fantasia*, and *Bambi*. World War II and other factors had severely impacted the studio's European markets and film releases. However, the release of *Cinderella* proved to be a pivotal moment, rescuing the company from potential ruin and capturing the hearts of a world yearning for hope and joy.
As *Cinderella* celebrates its 75th anniversary, we explore how this timeless tale mirrors Walt Disney's own journey and provided a much-needed boost to the studio and a war-weary world.
The Right Film at the Right TimeDisney's success with 1937's *Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs* enabled the construction of the Burbank studio and fueled ambitions for more feature-length animation. However, subsequent films like *Pinocchio*, despite critical acclaim, faced financial difficulties due to the disruption caused by World War II. European markets dried up, and the studio was involved in wartime production, shifting focus away from narrative features.
“Disney's European markets dried up during the war, impacting films like *Pinocchio* and *Bambi*,” explains Eric Goldberg, co-director of *Pocahontas* and lead animator on *Aladdin’s* Genie. “The studio also produced ‘Package Films,’ collections of shorts, which, while successful, weren't the narrative features Disney was known for.”
These Package Films, including those related to the Good Neighbor Policy, helped stabilize the studio's finances, but the desire to return to full-length animated features remained strong. Walt Disney himself contemplated selling his shares, but ultimately decided to gamble on a new feature film.
“Walt recognized America's post-war need for hope and joy,” says Tori Cranner, Art Collections Manager at the Walt Disney Animation Research Library. “While *Pinocchio* is beautiful, it lacks the joyful spirit of *Cinderella*. The film was the right choice for that moment.”
Cinderella and Disney’s Rags to Riches Tale
Walt Disney's fascination with Cinderella dates back to 1922, when he created a short at Laugh-O-Gram Studios. The classic tale of good versus evil, true love, and dreams resonated with him, mirroring his own journey of overcoming challenges and pursuing his dreams. Though his early version was unsuccessful, the core themes remained compelling.
“Snow White waited for her Prince,” Walt Disney noted. “Cinderella took action. She believed in dreams and acted upon them.” Cinderella’s proactive nature, her strength in the face of adversity, mirrored Walt's own determination and work ethic.
The film's development spanned over a decade, influenced by the war and other factors. Disney’s ability to adapt and modernize the fairytale, adding elements like the charming animal companions and a more relatable Fairy Godmother, contributed to its widespread appeal. The film also softened the grimmer aspects of the original tale, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
The iconic transformation scene, a testament to the artistry of Marc Davis and George Rowley, is often cited as Walt's favorite animation sequence. The painstaking detail, including hand-drawn sparkles, creates a magical moment that encapsulates the film's essence.
“Every sparkle was hand-drawn and painted,” Cranner marvels. “The brief pause before the transformation adds to its magic; it’s a breathtaking moment.”
The broken glass slipper, a Disney addition, emphasizes Cinderella's agency and strength. Her resourcefulness in presenting the other slipper highlights her proactive nature and determination.
Released in 1950, *Cinderella* was a resounding success, exceeding expectations and revitalizing the Disney studio. Its financial triumph and critical acclaim signaled a return to form, paving the way for future animated classics.
“*Cinderella* brought Disney back on track,” Goldberg explains. “The studio regained its momentum, leading to *Peter Pan*, *Lady and the Tramp*, and many more beloved films.”
75 Years Later, Cinderella’s Magic Lives On
Cinderella's enduring legacy continues to inspire Disney’s creations. Her influence is visible in iconic landmarks like the castles at Disney theme parks and in modern films like *Frozen*, where Elsa's transformation scene draws inspiration from Cinderella’s magical moment.
“Cinderella’s legacy, especially in the sparkles and effects surrounding Elsa's dress, is a tribute to the impact of earlier films,” says Becky Bresee, lead animator on *Frozen 2* and *Wish*.
The enduring message of hope and perseverance embedded in *Cinderella* continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as a timeless classic and a crucial turning point in Disney's history.
“*Cinderella*'s message of hope and the realization of dreams is its most powerful element,” Goldberg concludes. “It’s a timeless story of perseverance and the belief that dreams can come true.”
