Cinderella at 75: The Princess and Glass Slippers That Saved Disney

Celebrating 75 Years of Cinderella: How a Princess Saved Disney

In 1947, The Walt Disney Company faced a dire financial situation, burdened by millions of dollars in debt following the underperformance of films like Pinocchio, Fantasia, and Bambi. World War II and other factors had severely impacted the studio's European markets and overall profitability. However, the release of Cinderella marked a turning point, rescuing the company from potential collapse and cementing its legacy.

This beloved fairy tale, celebrating its 75th anniversary of wide release on March 4th, mirrors Walt Disney's own journey of perseverance and triumph over adversity. It offered not only hope to the studio but also to a post-war world yearning for inspiration and belief.

A Timely Tale

Disney's initial success with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937 had enabled the construction of the Burbank studio and fueled ambitions for more feature-length animated films. However, subsequent productions, beginning with Pinocchio, faced financial setbacks despite critical acclaim. The disruption caused by World War II significantly hampered international distribution, leading to losses for films like Pinocchio and Bambi. To further complicate matters, the studio was contracted by the U.S. government to produce training and propaganda films, shifting focus away from narrative features. The subsequent production of "Package Films," collections of shorter cartoons compiled into feature-length releases, while financially viable, did little to restore the studio's creative momentum.

Walt Disney himself expressed frustration with this situation, even considering selling his shares and leaving the company. However, he and his brother, Roy O. Disney, ultimately chose to gamble on a new animated feature, a risk that could have ended Disney's animation studio forever.

Cinderella: A Reflection of Hope

Cinderella, in various stages of development alongside Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, was selected as the studio's next big project. Its similarity to the successful Snow White and its message of hope resonated deeply with Walt Disney, who believed it perfectly captured the spirit of post-war America. The film's themes of overcoming adversity and achieving dreams offered a powerful message of resilience and optimism.

Walt Disney’s fascination with the Cinderella story dated back to 1922, when he created a short version during his time at Laugh-O-Gram Studios. The classic tale of good versus evil, true love, and dreams realized held a special significance for him, mirroring his own journey of overcoming challenges.

The Cinderella film, however, differed significantly from earlier versions. Disney’s team infused the story with their unique style, creating more globally appealing characters and a more uplifting narrative. The addition of Cinderella's animal companions provided comic relief and allowed for a deeper exploration of her personality. The Fairy Godmother's portrayal, a more relatable and endearing character than in previous iterations, contributed to the film's charm.

The iconic transformation scene, meticulously crafted by Disney legends Marc Davis and George Rowley, stands out for its breathtaking detail and emotional impact. The subtle pause before the magical transformation adds to the scene's power and enchantment. The broken glass slipper, a unique addition to the Disney adaptation, further emphasizes Cinderella's strength and agency.

The film's success was undeniable. Cinderella's box office performance surpassed all expectations, exceeding even Snow White's success and revitalizing the studio's creative energy. The critical acclaim and awards recognition solidified its place in cinematic history.

A Lasting Legacy

Cinderella's impact extends far beyond its initial release. Its enduring popularity and influence are evident in Disney's subsequent animated features, including the iconic dress transformation scene in Frozen, which pays homage to Cinderella's magical moment. The film's message of hope and perseverance continues to inspire audiences worldwide. The princess, once a symbol of Disney's own resurgence, remains an enduring icon, a testament to the power of dreams and the enduring magic of storytelling.