The World Seen from A Child's Eye

Do you ever wonder how different types of media shape a child's perspective of the world? If we were to ask someone born in the late 19s about their stance on certain societal problems, it would be completely different if we asked someone born in the early 20s. The world took a significant leap forward when social media became more influential in people's day-to-day lives. Apps, articles, videos, posts, and films—they were the big push to society that helped change prejudiced and outdated views that society had vehemently held. Media from the past often contained propaganda that was intended to shame people based on background, color, sexual orientation, or physical features. Things like posters and films were the most frequent type of media people used.

Comparing media from the past and the present, you'll definitely notice a visible contrast in the messages they portray. “Year of the Dragon” is a film made in 1985, directed by Michael Cimino. The movie faced intense criticism for racism, sexism, and xenophobia, with Asian-American groups organizing boycotts over its stereotypical, violent portrayal of Chinatown. Critics also slammed the film as a "structural mess” utilizing "yellowface" and promoting negative stereotypes about Asian immigrants by depicting Chinatown as a hotbed of organized crime, drug deals, and violence. At the time, media like that was considered the norm and acceptable. Showing just how horrible the discrimination against immigrants is in Western media. In comparison to Pixar's ”Elementals” and “Turning Red”, both use animated stories to explore deeper themes about immigration, culture, refuge, and ethnic representation. Even though they are considered children's films, they reflect real experiences many immigrant families face.

The film “Elementals” explores immigration and cultural identity through Ember’s family, who leave their homeland to build a better life in Element City. Their struggles with discrimination and their effort to keep their traditions alive reflect the experiences of many families seeking refuge and opportunity. The different elements in the city symbolize diverse cultural groups and show how society can overcome prejudice through understanding. Inspired by the immigrant background of director Peter Sohn, the film highlights the importance of embracing one’s heritage while adapting to a new environment. While “Turning Red” focuses on second-generation immigrant identity and cultural expectations. Mei struggles to balance her Chinese family’s traditions with her own personal growth while growing up in Canada. Her red panda transformation symbolizes both puberty and the pressure of navigating two cultures, all while traversing her growth as a person. The film highlights Asian representation and shows the importance of accepting both one’s cultural roots and individuality.

Most “children's” films are downplayed by society into nothing but silly creative work. But, the truth is, movies like these are what shape the future generation into developing more open-minded thoughts. The film industry is a large factor that influences how a child sees the world. Creating movies that have silent yet unwavering messages show what certain families go through and demonstrate to young adolescents that some people do not have the privilege they do. The movies illustrate the different scenarios that many communities suffer due to bias. More kids are growing up with kind consideration and no judgement for a person's physical qualities. Showing just how influential the media a child consumes is, reminding us that the world continues to change for the better in small ways, even when we give up on it.

— Athena Deiyz Anicete