The actors’ personal presentation on social media

Whilst the nature of the interviews differed between films, how the actors presented themselves when off-screen was consistent between the films. For both, they maintained the illusion of a magical version of their character. Disney’s lead actors are often required to sign restrictive contracts to maintain the appropriate ‘Disney’ image (Rae) and James’ and Bailey’s social media curation and wardrobe choices illustrate this. Figures 17, 18 and 19 are examples of James’ official Instagram account from the time of the film’s premiere. With a ‘Cinderella blue’ colour theme, the images exude glamour, in wardrobe and setting, creating the impression that she really was living the life of a princess, beyond her role in the film. James’ birthday cake (fig.19) was even shaped like her ballgown costume from the film.

There is a similar trend with Bailey’s Instagram (fig.20, 21, and 22), where watery colours of blue/green and tight-fitting clothes are reminiscent of her mermaid role and there are ocean settings consolidating the actor’s link with the film character.

Similar strategic choices are seen for red carpet and public appearances of other Disney character actors, ‘keeping the magic alive’ through their wardrobe. Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning, who played Aurora and Maleficent respectively in Disney’s 2014 film Maleficent (fig. 23) exemplify this. The images above show how Fanning often wore light, flowing, and floral outfits, resembling her character’s costumes in the film. This was a high contrast with co-star Jolie who wore black, bold, and structured dresses that emulated her intimidating and powerful Maleficent character.

Similarly, for both Cinderella and The Little Mermaid, public appearances of the leading actors have been consistent with the characters they play. For example, Cinderella premiered at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival (13th February 2015) where Lily James’ hair was in a bun, and she wore a ballgown covered in sparkling diamonds befitting a Princess (fig.24). James even wore ‘glass slipper’ Jimmy Choo heels (fig.25).

Of note, given the controversy in the run-up to the film’s release, her outfit didn’t feature a corset. Similarly, Bailey’s glistening silver dress for the films premiere is reminiscent of both a mermaid (shimmering water, shell-shapes) and Princesses (fig.26). This shows some consistency across the Disney live-action films, with the magical escapism of the films being merged with the real world, through the actors’ portrayal of themselves on their social media platforms and at public events.