A new Disney+ short film called Reflect utilizes an obese protagonist to tackle the problems with body image that young people commonly experience. Based on an episode of the most recent season of Short Circuit Experimental Films, the film tells the story of Bianca, a young, colossal dancer.
She feels uncomfortable in her dance lesson and worries that she isn’t as talented as her classmates. She participates in the dance, overcoming her reservations and facing obstacles with inner strength. She eventually comes to enjoy her former body, which had previously given her cause for insecurity.
An all-new Short Circuit Experimental Film has arrived! Stream “Reflect” and all the Short Circuit Experimental Films by Walt Disney Animation Studios artists now on @DisneyPlus. 🩰 🎆 pic.twitter.com/c0gw5U4ecc
— Disney Animation (@DisneyAnimation) September 14, 2022
Bianca is seen dancing in front of a mirror in a Disney video as the image breaks. She struggles at first to feel confident, but she soon does, dancing till the mirror is gone.
Reflect, a six-minute film was promoted as a motivating narrative about overcoming body dysmorphia and anxieties. Director Hillary Bradfield, who has also worked on Encanto and Frozen II, anticipated that viewers would “feel more positive about themselves and how they seem” after seeing the short.
In principle, I feel very positive about my body – said the director. But it’s much harder to be optimistic about yourself when it’s on a personal level. Setting the story from a dancer’s point of view seemed natural.
She’s part of the job looking at posture and checking things in the mirror, so it seemed an excellent way to put her in that environment where she has to look at herself even if she doesn’t want to.
When people watch the short, I hope they can feel more positive about themselves and their looks and better about dealing with the complex parts of life.
