Kristin Caprett

So don't get me wrong. I love a romantic Disney princess movie just like anyone else. I love how empowering they made Tiana and how she is not afraid to set goals, work hard, budget and save to have the restaurant of her dreams. But I feel that as much as disney wanted to emphasize a strong independent female lead, they literally slap us in the face saying it isn't worth it if a girl doesn't find love and get married first, hence mama odie " You're blind to what you need" in reference to love I guess. I get that maybe disney was trying to say that everyone needs balance. It's great to be strong, independent, have a good work ethic, budget and save to make your dreams come true but also value and make time for your friends and loved ones. So why then couldn't Tiana realize that yes she does need to balance her life and maybe work out getting together with her friends more and if there must be romance, having a supportive boyfriend as she succeeds in getting her dream? Why does she have to fall in love and be married first before her dream could come true?! Why is it so wrong that she wants to wait to find true love? She clearly says that in the very beginning. Disney did a good job promoting stronger female leads but they still have some work to do. Love the movie but still feel as if they were giving mixed messages.