Why the "Descendants" Franchise is a Cultural Catastrophe

Once upon a time, Disney decided to unleash a franchise that would make even the most ardent fairy tale fanatics cringe. Enter "Descendants," a series that first hit our screens in 2015, featuring the offspring of Disney's most notorious villains. Set in the fictional kingdom of Auradon, the story follows these villainous progeny as they navigate the challenges of high school life. But why, you ask, is this seemingly innocent franchise a cultural catastrophe? Let's break it down.

First, let's talk about the glorification of villainy. In a world where moral clarity is already in short supply, "Descendants" takes it upon itself to blur the lines even further. By making the children of villains the protagonists, Disney sends a confusing message to young viewers. Are we supposed to root for the bad guys now? This franchise seems to suggest that being bad is just a misunderstood form of good. It's a dangerous narrative that undermines the traditional values of right and wrong.

Next, there's the issue of identity politics. "Descendants" is a masterclass in pandering to the woke crowd. The franchise is obsessed with diversity, but not in a way that feels genuine or meaningful. Instead, it comes across as a checklist of politically correct boxes that need ticking. The characters are a hodgepodge of ethnicities and backgrounds, but their stories lack depth and authenticity. It's as if Disney is more concerned with appearing inclusive than actually telling a compelling story.

The franchise also perpetuates the idea that heritage defines destiny. By focusing on the children of villains, "Descendants" implies that one's lineage is an inescapable part of their identity. This is a regressive notion that flies in the face of individualism and personal responsibility. Instead of encouraging young viewers to forge their own paths, the franchise suggests that they are forever tethered to the sins of their parents.

Moreover, "Descendants" is a prime example of Disney's relentless commercialization. The franchise is a cash cow, with merchandise ranging from dolls to clothing to video games. It's a cynical ploy to extract as much money as possible from parents who are already inundated with Disney products. The focus is not on storytelling or creativity, but on maximizing profits. It's a sad reflection of the state of modern entertainment.

The music in "Descendants" is another point of contention. While some may argue that the catchy tunes are a highlight, they are, in reality, a collection of forgettable pop songs that lack substance. The lyrics are shallow, and the melodies are repetitive. It's a far cry from the timeless classics that Disney is known for. Instead of inspiring and uplifting, the music of "Descendants" is just another example of the franchise's mediocrity.

Let's not forget the impact on young viewers. "Descendants" is marketed towards impressionable children who are still forming their understanding of the world. By presenting a skewed version of morality and identity, the franchise risks confusing and misleading its audience. It's a disservice to the very demographic it claims to entertain and educate.

Finally, there's the question of originality. "Descendants" is a rehashing of old Disney properties, repackaged for a new generation. It's a lazy attempt to capitalize on nostalgia without offering anything new or innovative. The franchise relies on the legacy of classic Disney villains to draw in viewers, but it fails to deliver a fresh or engaging narrative. It's a missed opportunity to create something truly unique and memorable.

In the end, "Descendants" is a cultural catastrophe that reflects the worst aspects of modern entertainment. It glorifies villainy, panders to identity politics, and prioritizes profit over creativity. It's a franchise that should have been a celebration of storytelling but instead serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when commercial interests take precedence over artistic integrity.