2) Tangled (2010)
Unlike most other fairy tales featuring a female main character, Disney seemed to be avoiding Rapunzel, until 2010’s Tangled brought her front and centre – courtesy of screenwriter Dan Fogelman (Crazy, Stupid, Love), and directors Nathan Greno (writer of Meet The Robinsons) and Byron Howard (Bolt). Perhaps the original tale, as adapted by the Brothers Grimm from the 1698 story Persinette, by Charlotte-Rose de Caumont de La Force, was a little dark for the House of Mouse (and everyone else, for that matter) – what with all its allusions to fertility issues, violence, imprisonment, and procreation outside of wedlock.
But, it was worth the wait, because Tangled is just lovely. This popular adaptation sees the tale altered to feature the absorption by Rapunzel of the magical powers of a flower, which is then assumed to grow through her long hair. The evil witch is motivated to keep Rapunzel imprisoned by her desire to stay young – something which the magical powers can guarantee. The male character here is a thief, rather than a prince, who initially becomes Rapunzel’s reluctant guide, rather than immediately the father of her children. Such adjustments to the traditional narrative make for wholesome entertainment the whole family can enjoy.
