MovieChat Forums > Aladdin (1992) Discussion > Is Aladdin offensive?

Is Aladdin offensive?

posted 9 years ago by sgarfield-35533
35 replies | jump to latest

Does Disney's Aladdin create an offensive construction of the Arab culture through generic western stereotypes of the east?

Evidence such as the change in original lyrics of Arabian nights, the way Jasmine is portrayed and also through the characters themselves (skin tone & facial features) could suggest an offensive portrayal of the Arab culture.

Is this accurate to suggest?

[–] FizzyGillespie 8 years ago

It's offensive if you choose to be offended.

It's a fictional movie that takes place in a fictional city/country.

It was also made 25 years ago, so sensibilities have changed somewhat since then.

[–] Master_Sarnath 8 years ago

to all the delicate flowers who are "offended" by a 24 year old cartoon: *beep* OFF AND DIE

[–] XXXstrikerXXX 8 years ago

hahah offensive, hell no. but in this pc world, i guess some people would find it so....

[–] shadaif 8 years ago

None of my Arab friends or family find Aladdin offensive. They like that it raises a positive interest in their culture even if this film isn't an accurate portrayal of Arab life.

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[–] Osama1983 8 years ago

It is offensive. The opening song is enough. That is how Hollywood unfortunately portrays Arabs usually. I would refer you to this documentary : Reel Bad Arabs: How Hollywood Vilifies a People (2006)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0948465/?ref_=nv_sr_1