Part 9/11:
Interestingly, the choice of casting reflects and perhaps influences broader cultural conversations. Historically, fairy tales like Rapunzel have embodied the "devouring mother" archetype—a figure who isolates and controls the innocent protagonist. How Disney approaches this in casting could subtly shift the story's tone and themes.
For instance, casting a traditionally attractive woman like Jennifer Lopez as Mother Gothel might lean into her glamour, but also risks undermining the archetypal significance of the character. The ongoing trend of casting attractive women in villainous roles could reflect a shift in storytelling norms, possibly at the expense of the story's original moral tone.