Apparently, Mickey Mouse is getting ready for a makeover. Disney's iconic character is getting an overhaul to stay relevant to a new generation of children and fans according to an article from The New York Times. Turns out, Mickey Mouse isn't the only cartoon character who will get a new look.
Already, a new Strawberry Shortcake and Angelina Ballerina have been unveiled. The Care Bears, Scooby Doo, Bugs Bunny, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are lining up for their own makeovers, and a Smurf makeover is probably imminent since the making of a new Smurfs movie was announced.
Are these makeovers really necessary or is it just a PR stunt to draw attention to the brands? My kids love the Care Bears the way they are. Will they like them anymore or less when the 21st century Care Bears make their debut later this year? I doubt it.
What do you think?
I think it all comes back to this inexplicable drive to hurry children into adulthood much earlier than I think is necessary, or healthy for that matter. I can understand this desire to ensure relevance to a new generation, but what about either leaving something as is to allow for universal/nostalgic appeal or designing for that universal appeal.
Posted by: Scott | June 12, 2008 6:30 AM | Permalink to Comment