Throughout the many Disney movies, goth characters have popped up in all sorts of roles, ranging from heroes to villains and everywhere in-between. In more recent years, the goth culture has become an important part of the world of Disney movies. While some movies have maintained the classic Cinderella tales, they have also embraced the darker, more edgier forms through goth characters. While people have seen many animated versions, gothic characters have been a reality in the world of Disney movies for quite some time.
Using The Gothic Aesthetic
One of the primary ways gothic has infiltrated Disney movies is through the use of the gothic aesthetic. Characters in Disney movies have been portrayed in grimmer black and grey tones and design lines. Whether in the setting or characters, using this aesthetic has allowed Disney to create darker, more muted stories. By using minimal color, lines, and shapes, the gothic aesthetic can be used to convey a much darker tone.
Scarlet Witch
Scarlet Witch, otherwise known as Wanda Maximoff, is a wizard-like character who is often seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Appearing both in the Avengers movies, as well as her own standalone film WandaVision, Scarlet Witch is known for her stylish, gothic aesthetic. Most memorable is the black and red makeup outlining her eyes and topping off with a sleek hooded outfit. By using this particular outfit, Scarlet Witch was able to look unique compared to other characters while also embracing her gothic aesthetic.
Oogie Boogie
This villainous character first made his appearance in the 1993 movie, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Oogie Boogie is an evil and shady bogeyman who loves to gamble and loves chaos. His design is oozing with gothic vibes, from his creepy burlap sack body to his skull-like face and black spiky hair. His design alone is enough to give viewers the shivers, and as one of the darkest villains in any Disney movie, Oogie Boogie uses his gothic look to embody evil.
Tiana from “The Princess and The Frog”
The 2009 Disney classic, “The Princess and The Frog” made history by being the first Disney movie with a black princess in the lead role. Princess Tiana had the perfect mix of sophistication, adventure, and gothic sophistication. With her hair often styled in pin-up curls, her costume always seemed to include something gothic with thigh-high boots to Victorian inspired gowns. This combination allowed Tiana to look fashionable while embracing a certain level of mystery.
Gothic Animation Styles
One of the most unique ways gothic has infiltrated Disney movies is through the use of animation style that embraces the shadows and darker shades. While Disney movies often rely on bright colors and lively characters, the use of dark tones creates a certain level of flair while also raising the factors of fear and danger. The inclusion of darker lighting and more detailed characters have been used to create more sinister characters and complex storylines.
Maleficent
One of the most iconic Disney movies is “Sleeping Beauty” and its remake “Maleficent” starring Angelina Jolie has allowed for the messy and complex world of the gothic to emerge. The movie itself tells the darker side of the story as it dives into the backstory of the evil Wicked Fairy, Maleficent. The character is known for her intense lush black wings, her evil powers and her incredibly stylish gothic attire. While she’s evil, it’s hard not to admire her style and the gothic elements that make up her character.
Evie from “Descendants”
The Disney Channel’s original movie “Descendants” features a range of characters drawn to the dark side but one, in particular, stands out thanks to her fashionably gothic style. Evie, daughter of the Evil Queen, is known for her fierce, black and purple wardrobe and unique hairstyle. Every outfit Evie wears has a combination of modern and gothic elements. From her jackets, pants, or dresses, she’s sure to include sleek details or color tones to embody her edginess.
Gothic has become an essential part of Disney movies as it brings in a darker look and tone to the world of magical stories and characters. Whether their style affects the entire movie or just one character, their vibrancy and aura make them stand out among the many other characters. Whether they’re heroes, villains, or somewhere in-between, the memorable goth characters in Disney have a unique charm and attitude that will remain timeless.
