Disney discourse : producing the magic kingdom / edited by Eric Smoodin. [0415906156 (hb : acid-free paper)] New York : Routledge, 1994.
Call#: Van Pelt Library PN1999.W27 D57 1994
Call#: Van Pelt Library PN1999.W27 D57 1994
The article by Moya Luckett, "Fantasia: Cultural Constructions of Disney's "Masterpiece," focuses on the reception of Fantasia primarily upon its initial release (1940-1) but also upon its rereleases in 1954 and 1991. Luckett adopts the approach to reception studies explicated by Janet Staiger in Interpreting Films; rather than interpreting Fantasia she "attempt[s] a historical explanation of the event of interpreting a text." Luckett examines publicity and reviews in order to ascertain what audience expectations might have been and what readings of Fantasia were in circulation. Disney positioned Fantasia as a work of high culture by presenting it as a roadshow and referring to it as a concert rather than a film. Negative critical reaction tended to come from music critics and to focus on the incompatibility of film and classical music, the former being properly experienced in a mode of distraction, the latter in one of contemplation. Luckett's interpretation is convincing; her article also provides many quotes from reviews and Disney's own publicity with relevant citations, making it useful for anyone wishing to pursue a different interpretation of the reception of Fantasia.


