Peter Pan & Wendy finally addresses the problematic Tiger Lily story from the animated Peter Pan after 70 years. Disney's approach to Tiger Lily has been panned for years for its offensive stereotypes and cultural appropriation. The indigenous characters were depicted as racially insensitive caricatures, and the song "What Makes the Red Man Red" is a clear example of blatant racism. However, it's heartening to see that Disney has finally taken notice of the outrage and made a positive change in Peter Pan & Wendy. Alyssa Wapanatâhk's portrayal of Tiger Lily, with authentic Cree language, dress, and craftsmanship, is a significant step toward the respectful representation of indigenous peoples.

Wapanatâhk has expressed her surprise and happiness at Disney's attention to detail in Peter Pan & Wendy and care for the character of Tiger Lily. She has also praised the company for taking steps towards more respectful representation of indigenous peoples in their films. These positive steps taken in creating Peter Pan & Wendy should serve as a model for future Hollywood productions. As one of the most influential media companies in the world, when Disney makes an effort to do something correctly, other media companies usually follow suit. While Disney cannot change its past movies, it can undo much of the damage by making these changes in the present and future.

Tiger Lily with a lost boy in Peter Pan and Wendy

Alyssa Wapanatâhk's role in Peter Pan & Wendy is an important step away from the caricatures of indigenous peoples too often seen in past Disney movies like Peter Pan. In preparation for the role, Wapanatâhk worked closely with elders from her Cree community to ensure that the portrayal of Tiger Lily was respectful and accurate in terms of language, dress, and craftsmanship. This approach to the character of Tiger Lily allowed Wapanatâhk to create a nuanced and respectful character that accurately reflects the diversity and richness of her indigenous culture.

Peter Pan & Wendy Director David Lowery also made a significant effort to ensure that the representation of indigenous cultures in the film was respectful. He hired Native consultants Dawn Jackson and Dr. Kevin Lewis. Jackson is a member of the Saginaw Chippewa tribe and has worked as a cultural consultant on numerous films and TV shows. Lewis is a Minisitkwan Lake Cree Nation member and a Cree language and culture expert. Together, Jackson and Lewis worked with Wapanatâhk and Disney to ensure that the portrayal of indigenous cultures in the film was culturally considerate. They also hired Cree crafts producers to create authentic canoes, clothing, saddles, and bridles.

tiger lily in peter pan and wendy

In the new film, Peter Pan & Wendy, Tiger Lily's character is given more depth and agency than her previous portrayal in the 1953 cartoon. She is no longer a mere stereotype but a fully realized character with her own story and motivations. Alyssa Wapanatâhk's portrayal brings authenticity and sensitivity to the role. Tiger Lily's love for the Lost Boys and Peter Pan is evident. In addition, she is a warrior in her own right, fighting alongside Peter and the others in battles against Captain Hook and his crew. She is also shown to have a strong connection to her culture and heritage.

Adding these elements to Tiger Lily's character in Peter Pan & Wendy makes her a much more well-rounded and compelling figure. A movie centered around Tiger Lily would be an excellent opportunity for Disney to delve even deeper into her story and provide more representation for indigenous peoples. By showcasing diverse cultures respectfully, Disney and other media companies have the potential to create more inclusive and equitable representation in Hollywood. This would not only undo some of the damage caused by past insensitive portrayals but also provide new opportunities for indigenous peoples to be seen and heard in mainstream media.