Disney’s classic animated movies are often considered timeless, and many have indeed become beloved traditions passed down through generations. However, some of the studio’s older films haven’t held up as well over time. While still popular with some, certain Disney productions contain outdated and offensive portrayals of different cultures. One film, released 84 years ago today, is particularly controversial, filled with stereotypes that are hard to overlook by today’s standards.
Walt Disney released the animated film Dumbo on October 23, 1941. The movie follows a young circus elephant mocked for his big ears. When his mother is taken away for defending him, Dumbo faces rejection and humiliation. Luckily, with the help of his friend, a mouse named Timothy, Dumbo learns his large ears actually allow him to fly, transforming his biggest weakness into an amazing talent. While the film was a financial and critical success – even winning an Academy Award for its music – it has since become controversial over time.
Why Is Dumbo So Controversial?
The film Dumbo contains racist depictions that have drawn significant criticism, particularly in its portrayal of a group of crows who assist Dumbo in learning to fly. These characters rely on harmful stereotypes of African Americans, using exaggerated speech and performing music rooted in jazz and gospel traditions. The leader of the crows is named Jim Crow, a direct reference to the deeply offensive character from 19th-century minstrel shows and the segregation laws he came to represent in the American South. Adding to the issue, the voice of this crow leader was provided by Cliff Edwards, a white actor, which is now widely considered comparable to performing in blackface.
Beyond the crows, the movie Dumbo contains another troubling scene. Early in the film, a group of unnamed Black workers perform the song “Song of the Roustabouts” while erecting the circus tent during a storm. The song’s lyrics, sung by these workers who call themselves “happy-hearted roustabouts,” actually celebrate their own mistreatment, with lines like “We work all day, we work all night. We never learned to read or write,” and “When other folks have gone to bed, we slave until we’re almost dead.” This depiction is deeply dehumanizing, as it casually presents the workers’ hardship, lack of education, and exhausting labor. The scene also includes a voice shouting a racist insult – “Grab that rope, you hairy ape” – from off-screen.
Disney has recently begun addressing problematic content in its older movies. For example, when you watch Dumbo on Disney+, a warning appears acknowledging that the film contains harmful and inaccurate portrayals of people and cultures. The 2019 live-action remake of Dumbo went even further, completely removing the controversial crow characters. While Disney is now recognizing these issues, the original film remains a stark reminder of how even seemingly innocent media can reinforce damaging stereotypes.
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2025-10-23 16:15