In the new documentary “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales,” Disney argues that
“They have gone the way of most every other company in this country. They started with a bigger idea of themselves than that," Disney said in an interview. “The Walt Disney Co. was better. It was kinder, it was gentler. It was a human company.
“We have lost the plot," said Disney.
“The American Dream," which is playing in select theaters and debuts Friday on video-on-demand, is directed by Disney, an activist and film producer, and the filmmaker
“No one’s reached out to me. I’m a little mystified by it, frankly,” said Disney. “I’m happy to talk if that’s what they want to do. I am rooting for them. I love this company. This is a love letter to the company. But when you really, really love something and see it going off the rails, you can’t be silent.”
The film follows four
“I know that people think I’m just living out here in abstract land,” Disney said. “But the abstractions matter a lot, and the sensibilities must change.”
Wages for some Disney workers have been changing. Unions representing 9,500 workers at
In response to “The American Dream,” a Disney spokesperson replied with a statement.
“Our amazing cast members, storytellers, and employees are the heart and soul of Disney, and their wellbeing is our top priority. We work hard to ensure that our team is supported in ways that enable them to grow their careers, care for their families, and thrive at work — which is why so many people choose to spend their entire careers with us."
The spokesperson also cited medical coverage, access to tuition-free higher education and subsidized child care as worker benefits. “We are committed to building on these impactful programs by identifying new ways to support our cast members and communities around the world,” said the spokesperson.
When
“I just don’t think it’s a good idea for
Disney, though, was encouraged by workers who protested Chapek’s response to
“There is no such thing as not having a position on this question,” she said. "There is no neutral ground. To pretend you can stand still on a moving train is a terrible mistake."
Ultimately, Disney increasingly doesn't recognize the company that for much of her life was the family business. Making a movie about her disapproval, she says, was “exquisitely uncomfortable.” But she hasn't given up a happily-ever-after ending.
“I really do mean well,” Disney says. “You can say a lot of things about me, but I mean well.”
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