Disney's Princess Tiana Adds Real Life To Animated Films

Disney isn't known for its culturally diverse set of princesses, but that is changing with the release of The Princess and the Frog.

The movie's heroine, Tiana, is clearly different than her blonde-haired predecessors. Not only is Tiana Disney's first black princess, but she is also the starring personality in a major film that brings the dream of living happily ever after to children and adults of all races. It's taken until 2009, but finally the dream -- albeit an innocent and animated one -- is becoming more accessible. And Disney's brand stands to benefit from expanding its sense of humanity.

All brands, from McDonald's to Wal-Mart, want to secure brand loyalty from consumers at the earliest age possible. For many Americans, Disney is synonymous with childhood. And now, Disney is increasing the number of people who will feel that connection in the future.Continue reading...