Alan Menken on Disney's Identity Crisis: From Wokeness to the 'Generic' Disney Scores

Strategic Insights -

As Alan Menken, one of Disney's most beloved composers, navigates the studio's efforts to update its back catalogue, he shares his thoughts on the challenges of adapting classic stories and the evolution of Disney's sound. With a career spanning over four decades, Menken has composed scores for nine Disney films, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, and has won eight Academy Awards. Despite his legendary status, Menken is candid about the difficulties of tackling sensitive topics and the pitfalls of trying to appease both the progressive Left and the traditionalist Right.

Key Takeaways:

  • Menken believes that Disney is not having an identity crisis, but acknowledges the challenges of updating classic stories to reflect modern sensitivities.
  • He praises Disney's efforts to be more inclusive, but laments the toning down of certain elements, such as the randy satyr Philoctetes in the stage adaptation of Hercules.
  • Menken suggests that the studio has moved towards a more generic sound, citing the work of Lin-Manuel Miranda as an example of a distinct style.
  • Despite this, Menken remains committed to his craft, with multiple projects, including a live-action remake and stage adaptation of Tangled, on the go.
  • He expresses frustration with the lack of creative freedom, citing the decision to have computer-generated dwarfs in the Snow White remake, which he feels detracts from the character's iconic portrayal.
  • Menken credits his parents, who encouraged him to pursue a career in composition, and acknowledges the influence of his wife, Janis Roswick, a ballet dancer, on his work.

Statistics:

  • Menken has composed scores for nine Disney films, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin.
  • He has won eight Academy Awards and is an EGOT winner.
  • The new stage-musical version of Hercules, which Menken composed the score for, has opened on the West End.
  • The Snow White remake, which Menken had no involvement with, has been criticized for its casting decisions and controversial storyline.

Sources:

  • "Alan Menken: 'A lot of the new Disney scores are generic'" by The Times (no specific date mentioned)
  • "The 20 best Disney films of all time -- ranked" by The Times (no specific date mentioned)
  • "Alan Menken: 'I'd love to make a Hunchback movie that follows what Victor Hugo wrote'" by The Times (no specific date mentioned)
  • "Disney's Hercules: everything you need to know about this legendary hero's epic stage adventure and how to find tickets" by The Times (no specific date mentioned)