Disney and Religion

From our discussion in class about how Moana shows myths and how Maui is basically the creator of Tahiti, it got me thinking about other Disney movies and how those might show aspects of religion and mythology. Having a young niece and nephew made it easier to have an excuse to watch Disney movies too. Near the end of the movie The Jungle Book, Baloo and was nearly killed. Bagheera then stated near Baloo's unconscious body, "greater love hath no one, than he who lays down his life for his friends." This quote is actually a bible verse form John 15:13. Although later in the scene they find out that Baloo isn't actually dead, rather just knocked out, it still does not take the meaning out of the words. Another example of how Disney displays religion is in Lilo and Stitch. Lilo is a little girl who has already been through some rough times. Growing up without parents, being raised by a sister who is doing all she can to pay for the bills and ensure Lilo is taken care of, and not having many friends because she is "strange" leads to a lonely life for Lilo. One scene in the movie shows Lilo knelled by her bed and having a conversation with who we can believe is God/a higher power. During this conversation she asked for a friend, someone who is angel like and wont leave her. Then shows a scene with Stitch, Stitch comes to Earth and is trying to find where he belongs. Lilo then finds Stitch at an animal shelter and decides to adopt him. They found each other in a bizarre way, however it can be inferred that it was God's intention. The two found where they belong because of each other. Many religious people may argue that that is exactly what religion does for you, it helps you have faith that you belong somewhere. Disney has incorporated religion and mythology in many of its movies, these are just a few examples how it is shown.