Peter Pan and Wendy director David Lowery defended having girls as part of Peter's Lost Boy group.
Disney's upcoming remake of the studio's 1953 animated film contains many updates to the beloved story. However, the backlash continues to mount against some of these changes, including the decision to have the Lost Boys include girls among its ranks. In a recent interview with SFX, Lowery specifically addressed this change, defending it on the grounds that inclusion is important for viewers. "Movies should be for everybody, and it doesn't change the movie at all." Lowery explained, "It's the same story everyone grew up with. To each their own, but it's their loss. They're going to miss out on a great movie-going experience."
A New Era of Peter Pan
In the face of ongoing criticism, Lowery remains enthusiastic about the fact that Peter Pan and Wendy will be many viewers' first introduction to Peter Pan. "I am really excited for kids who get to discover this tale for the first time and for this to be their version of the Lost Boys and Peter and Tinkerbell and Captain Hook and Wendy." Lowery said. "The old versions are all going to be there, but for a certain generation, this will be their introduction to the story, and I'm really excited that it will be the one they think of when they think of Peter Pan."
Lowery also recently discussed the film's new version of Tiger Lily (Alyssa Wapanatahk) and how the filmmakers went to great lengths to give her a much larger role in the story, saying, "The challenge for us... is how do we take this character who, going back to the original text, was problematic, and give her a role that is not only supporting but integral to the entire movie?" Lowery maintains that they succeeded in reinventing Tiger Lily for a new generation, referring to her as a "strong and vibrant" character.
More Live-Action Disney Backlash
In addition to Peter Pan and Wendy, Disney is also releasing a live-action version of The Little Mermaid, starring Halle Bailey as Ariel. This film has also faced racist backlash for its casting choices, but Bailey explained that she foresaw the negative responses in advance. "As a Black person, you just expect it and it's not really a shock anymore," Bailey said. She also opened up about what the role of Ariel means to her and other members of the Black community, explaining that, "it's so important for us to see ourselves."
Peter Pan and Wendy hits Disney+ on April 28.
Source: SFX