The newest smash hit by Disney, Encanto, stars Mirabel Madrigal and her magical family. They all possess powers such as shape-shifting or super strength. That is, everyone except Mirabel. There have been dozens of Disney protagonists over the years, from Cinderella to Robin Hood to Elsa. Some are magical, some are extraordinary, and some are morally questionable.
For many reasons, Mirabel is unlike any other protagonist Disney has shown thus far. Even in the face of adversity, Mirabel stays herself and doesn't let the opinions of others change who she is. She's one of the kindest, most selfless Disney protagonists to date.
10 Mirabel Is Ordinary, And That's Okay
Mirabel is the only member of her family (aside from Abuela) who doesn't get a magical gift on her fifth birthday. She grows up around her siblings and cousins, who all have great powers that make them useful to the community in their own special way. On her fifth birthday, Mirabel is the only person to not get her own gift or door.
There's something magical in a Disney movie about a completely ordinary main character. Viewers grow up with characters who can fly and cast magic spells, which is fun for kids. However, it's nice to have a protagonist who's someone all viewers can relate to.
9 Other's Needs Are More Important Than Her Own
Mirabel is one of the least selfish characters Disney has created thus far. Throughout the movie, she puts the needs and safety of her family above her own. She risks even further ostracization from her family when she goes on a quest to find Bruno and save the Casita's magic.
Even though she doesn't have powers, and is often reminded of that by her family, their powers are extremely important to her. She risks her life and safety multiple times to save a magic that doesn't even serve her.
8 She Ensures The Happiness Of Others At Her Own Expense
Mirabel makes it obvious that other peoples' happiness is more important than her own. She goes to extreme lengths to make others happy, especially Abuela. When the Casita eventually falls apart, Mirabel runs away because she feels it's what would make the others happier, even if it's hard for her.
On the day of his gift ceremony, Mirabel does everything she can to calm Antonio down when he's nervous. She does this even though it has to be an extremely hard day for her, as it's the first gift ceremony since her own failed one.
7 Her Quest Is To Save Her Family
Mirabel's journey in Encanto is to find Bruno, figure out his prophecy, and work out why the magic is deteriorating. This magic doesn't serve her in any way, so she's not doing it for herself. As is shown in Luisa's freak out when she notices her strength dimming, the loss of powers would greatly affect the Madrigals and their sense of self-worth.
Mirabel isn't necessarily trying to save the miracle. Rather, she's trying to save her family. As long as the miracle stays strong, her family stays happy, self-assured, and strong.
6 Self-Pity Isn't In Her Nature
There are countless scenes in Disney movies of princesses throwing themselves onto beds or the ground in self-pity. That does not happen with Mirabel. She could pity herself plenty, especially with her differences and being treated like the broken member of the family. However, even though she could feel sorry for herself, Mirabel takes that energy and turns it into a drive to help others. Instead of feeling bad about her lack of magic, she brags about her "fantastical and magical" family to those in town who are curious.
5 She's Never Resented Those Who Treat Her Differently
Due to her differences, she tends to be ostracized by her family, especially Abuela. It seems like they don't have a very close relationship, as Abuela views her as a threat to the miracle. Even her own sister, Isabela, treats her like a burden.
In spite of this, Mirabel has never been resentful towards those who look at her as if she is different, a curse, or does not belong. This shows a lot of strength and maturity, as it can be difficult not to be angered by that.
4 Her Quest Is Within Her Home
Most Disney protagonists go on far-away adventures to fulfill their quest. Rapunzel went to the kingdom, Ariel went to the shore, and Marlin and Dory go to Australia. Mirabel, on the other hand, has her journey within the walls of her home.
She sets out to find Bruno in his forbidden room in the Casita, and she tries to find a way to save the miracle within their home. She doesn't need to venture out to lands beyond her imagination, as everything she needs is right where she is.
3 She Does Not Let A Relationship Distract Her From Her Mission
Romance in Disney movies has historically been the cause of some classic Disney magic. Little girls dream of finding their Prince Charming or their Prince Eric, often growing up thinking that "someday their prince will come." When it comes to Encanto, Mirabel doesn't have a romantic relationship.
In fact, the only romance is between Isabela and Mariano, and then Dolores and Mariano. Mirabel simply doesn't have time for a relationship while trying to save the miracle that gives her entire family magic powers!
2 She Shifts Conversations To Avoid Talking About Herself
In the opening song, "The Family Madrigal," Mirabel introduces every member of her family to curious children. However, she's obviously reluctant to talk about herself. She's constantly deterring the children, rerouting the song to avoid discussing her power (or lack thereof).
While this is due to the fact that she doesn't like to admit she's different, it's still unusual that a Disney protagonist doesn't want to discuss themselves. For example, take the lyrics to "Part of Your World" from The Little Mermaid: "Wouldn't you think I'm the girl, the girl who has everything." Most Disney protagonists enjoy talking about themselves and their lives.
1 Mirabel Will Never Be Anyone Other Than Herself
For some reason, there are many Disney movies in which the protagonist turns into an animal or version other than their normal self. Take The Princess and the Frog, Turning Red, Soul, and The Emperor's New Groove. All the characters end up learning a lesson about themselves in the process.
Aside from the fact Mirabel doesn't physically turn into anyone else, she never pretends or tries to be anyone that she's not. She is always true to herself, owns her insecurities, and never changes who she is for anyone. She's an inspirational character in the way she's completely honest about who she is, what she can do, and what she cannot do.