The Walt Disney Company introduced its first plus-size female protagonist in a new short film ‘Reflect’ and it talks about body dysmorphia.
It tells the story of Bianca, a ballet dancer who “battles her own reflection, overcoming doubt and fear by channeling her inner strength, grace and power.”
The small clip from the film shows Bianca practicing ballet in the mirror, and the mirror image of herself breaking apart – symbolizing the broken way in which she perceives her body.
To comfort herself, she starts dancing and suddenly the broken mirrors start to move with her, forming shapes and turning into different colors. This silent pep talk ends with her breaking through the mirror altogether and reentering the class with her peers full of confidence.
‘Reflect’ will be part of Disney’s Short Circuit series of experimental films, focusing on body image and the importance of developing and protecting your own self-esteem.
This amazing short is directed by Hillary Bradfield, a Disney Animation story artist for Frozen 2 and Encanto. Disney fans of all ages have been sharing their responses to the short film on social media.
This body dysmorphia theme is a powerful reminder of just how relatable such an experience is, particularly amongst women. TikTok users and Netizens have been quick to comment their support for the film and how significant it is to see a plus-size woman on the screen, even in animation.
Reflect is available to stream now on Disney+.
