Disney bought Marvel last week. Several sites reported the news, including io9. My thoughts went to the horrible possibility that the Jonas Brothers could guest star in the next Iron Man film. Could Disney de-claw Wolverine? Commenters across the internet had similar thoughts about how Disney might influence the portrayals of Marvel characters. The current movie deals concerning Marvel characters are staying intact, though, so Disney can't touch current projects. Even so, I doubt Disney would interfere with Marvel too much. Marvel is plenty successful on its own.
My concern is not about Marvel/Disney mash-ups. It's about control over children's media.
Disney already has a firm grip on the girls' demographic, ages 5-13 or so. The princesses are still popular and Disney's influence sky-rocketed with the additions of High School Musical, Hanna Montana, and the Jonas Brothers.
Disney lacks the same kind of access to the same demographic for boys, and that's why it bought Marvel. In ten years, the current contracts and holds on Marvel characters will expire and then Disney will have full access to children's media for girls and for boys. Disney will be a huge creator and distributor of comics, cartoons, live action shows, movies, action figures, toys, video games, and clothing for children and young teens. Bigger than it is now. All under one empire.
I don't want Disney to have a monopoly on childhood. I don't think anyone should. Children should have access to media from various creators and the freedom to choose what they want to watch or buy, but media mergers condense that access. Even ten years ago, I had a dozen TV shows to choose from on Saturday mornings. The media doesn't offer that many options anymore.
Growing media empires mean less ideas and less diverse content. Less creativity to stir children's imagination. More of the same re-hashed characters and plots that are perfect to watch in a daze, zombie-like.
I don't want the primary option for kids in the future to be Disney. I want to see kids get excited about the next Pixar film.
Oh, wait.
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