The Princess and the Frog is a 2009 animated musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. It is the 49th animated feature in the Walt Disney Animated Classics series, based on the novel The Frog Princess by E.D. Baker. Set in the early 20th century New Orleans, the film tells the story of a hardworking young African-American girl named Tiana who dreams of opening her own restaurant. When she meets a mysterious frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, she makes a fateful decision that leads them both on a wild adventure to fulfill their dreams.
The Princess and the Frog is the first Disney animated feature to feature an African-American princess as its main protagonist. It is also the first Disney movie to be set in the Jazz Age, and the first to be set in New Orleans. The film is directed by Ron Clements and John Musker and features music by Randy Newman.
The film’s story is inspired by the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale “The Frog Prince” and draws heavily on the culture of New Orleans. The storyline follows Tiana, a hardworking young woman who dreams of owning her own restaurant, and Prince Naveen, an arrogant frog prince who has been transformed into a frog by the evil witch doctor, Dr. Facilier. When the two meet and make a deal, they embark on a wild adventure that takes them through the French Quarter, the Bayou, and even the Burning Man Festival. Along the way, they encounter voodoo magic, talking frogs, and a host of other characters.
In addition to its unique setting and story, The Princess and the Frog also features a number of groundbreaking animations. These include the use of traditional 2D hand-drawn animation combined with 3D computer-generated imagery, and a unique digital painting process that creates a painterly look. This combination of traditional and modern animation techniques makes The Princess and the Frog one of the most visually stunning Disney movies ever made.
The Princess and the Frog also features an extremely talented voice cast. Anika Noni Rose voices Tiana, while Bruno Campos provides the voice of Prince Naveen. Other notable actors include Keith David as the villainous Dr. Facilier, Jim Cummings as the lovable firefly Ray, and Oprah Winfrey as the wise Mama Odie. The film also features music from legendary composer Randy Newman, including the Oscar-nominated song “Almost There.”
The Princess and the Frog was a major success for Disney, both critically and commercially. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song, and earned more than $267 million at the worldwide box office. It also received widespread critical acclaim, with many critics praising the film’s innovative animation and heartwarming story. The Princess and the Frog is widely considered to be one of the best animated films of its time.
The Princess and the Frog has become a beloved classic in the years since its release. It has spawned a successful Broadway musical, a series of video games, and countless merchandise items. It was also the first Disney animated feature to be set in the New Orleans area, and the first to feature an African-American princess as its main protagonist. The movie has become a source of pride for many in the African-American community and has helped to inspire a whole generation of young girls to pursue their dreams.
The Princess and the Frog is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages. Its unique blend of traditional animation and modern techniques, its memorable characters, and its uplifting story make it a must-see for any Disney fan. With its timeless message of courage, determination, and the power of dreams, The Princess and the Frog is a movie that will live on in the hearts of viewers for many years to come.
