Disney versus Tolkien: Why Tolkien Hated Disney

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Disney versus Tolkien: Why Tolkien Hated Disney

Tolkien hated Disney?

Did you realize that Tolkien’s novel, The Hobbit was published only a few months before Disney’s original Snow White movie came out in 1937? Tolkien watched it with his friend C.S. Lewis, and insisted that Disney never adapt his works! He saw how Disney removed the deep spiritual meaning from the great stories. Disney’s early films may be charming. But what they often lack is spiritual weight. The Evil depicted is cartoonish and suffering is brief. This means the role of suffering in life is minimized or omitted. The deep mystery of good and evil becomes a simple obstacle before a happy ending.
How does Tolkien’s view align with the grand narrative of the Bible? Join us and watch below to explore the answer:

 

 

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Are there other questions you would like us to address? Let us know down below.

Copyright © 2025 Joel & Michelle Pelsue. All Rights Reserved. Used with Permission.

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2 comments on “Disney versus Tolkien: Why Tolkien Hated Disney”

  1. Leonardo Ramirez Reply

    Great vlog Joel. I had no idea that Tolkien felt this way about Disney but it makes perfect sense. The sad thing is that the mindset you speak of shows up in production decisions, script coverage and script contests. This is encouraging and I love the distinction between escapism and planting a seed of hope through story. This not only places a stronger mandate on me as a writer but a deeper reliance on a creative God that can arrange relationships and connections that will work with us to bring our stories to life. It’s tough out there but He’s greater.

    • Joel Pelsue Reply

      Love it, Leonardo! Yes, this mentality is so prevalent, and we need to challenge Christians in particular to understand the need for deeper stories about good overcoming evil, not avoiding it or pretending it isn’t real.

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