What Disney Gets Wrong About Strong Female Leads

Disney’s portrayal of strong female leads has come a long way in recent years, but at times, their approach misses the mark. The problem lies in an over-simplified notion of strength—often depicted as fierce independence or physical prowess—without adequately exploring the emotional or relational depth that would make these characters truly resonate.

Take Merida from Brave, for example. While her defiance of traditional gender roles and desire for independence is refreshing, the film doesn’t spend enough time on her internal growth. Merida’s arc is about learning to be more compassionate and understanding, but the character’s emotional journey is often overshadowed by her rebelliousness and the focus on her strength. This leaves her development feeling more like a message than a fully realized character arc.

Similarly, Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon is portrayed as a capable, fearless warrior, but her emotional vulnerability, which is essential for character depth, often takes a backseat to her action-packed adventures. Disney’s portrayal of strong women can sometimes lean too much into their ability to succeed in physical tasks, without allowing them to experience the emotional struggles and growth that make heroes truly memorable.

True strength in female characters isn’t just about independence or power—it’s about showing vulnerability, growth, and self-discovery that resonates with audiences on a deeper level.