Post-Princess Models of Gender: The New Man in Disney/Pixar

In Ken Gillam and Shannon R. Wooden's article, "Post-Princess Models of Gender:  The New Man in Disney/Pixar," the role(s) of male figures is/has been making adjustments.  The idea that the lead male role requirements include overt masculinity, dry tear ducts, and emotional vacancy, is not as celebrated as it once was. Instead, emergence and development of a male's ability to "get in touch with his feminine side" appears to take precedence over  traditional male characteristics.  The competence of a male is in direct proportion to his ability and willingness to discuss his feelings and emotions.
"The New Man" acquires strength by recognizing, acknowledging, and understanding his own shortcomings. An example of dependence on others' skills to survive and escape danger,  is given regarding the character, Mr. Incredible, from the movie, The Incredibles (2004).  "Mr. Incredible likewise must embrace his own dependence...Mr. Incredible needs women--his wife's superpowers and Mirage's guilty intervention--to escape." (Gillam and Wooden, 2008)
The article points out that movies are progressively leaning towards bringing sociological education to audiences, as well as entertainment. History has shown that entertainment reflects the values of society at that time, including society's changing views and definitions of what it means to be masculine/feminine.





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