After Closure of Splash Mountain, Disney Fans Rally to Save ‘Song of the South’

Fan Movements for Film Revival

Disney fans are increasingly mobilizing to revive Song of the South, particularly following the controversial closure of Splash Mountain, a ride that drew inspiration from the film. This grassroots movement is gaining traction, with many supporters initiating petitions for the film to be recognized by the National Film Registry. The goal is to ensure that Song of the South, despite its contentious history, is preserved and recognized for its contributions to Disney’s legacy.

This thread is about how to nominate the purged 1946 film Walt Disney's Song of the South to the National Film Registry. The deadline is Aug 15. The form is in the next comment. You need reasons why it should be on the Registry & this thread will give you several. pic.twitter.com/LLXBPqbWF4

— Ed McCray (@Real_Ed_McCray) May 25, 2025

Social media plays a vital role in this revival effort. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook are abuzz with discussions and campaigns to contextualize and reevaluate the film’s historical significance. Supporters insist that Song of the South needs to be revisited, arguing for a nuanced understanding of its place in Disney’s history. While critics point to the film’s problematic narratives, advocates say that ignoring its existence does not contribute positively to the discourse surrounding race and representation in media.

The Historical Backdrop of the Film

Released in 1946, Song of the South emerged during a significant societal transition in the United States, following World War II. The film was notable for blending live-action with animation, a relatively innovative technique. It was based on stories collected from Joel Chandler Harris and aimed to capture the post-Civil War era in Georgia.

The film received a mixed critical reception upon its release. Although it achieved substantial commercial success—grossing over $65 million through multiple re-releases—critics, including the New York Times, lamented that the blending of live-action and animation detracted from Disney’s animation magic. Notably, the film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah,” reinforcing its place in the Disney canon despite the critical backlash.

Addressing Controversial Themes

From its inception, Song of the South has faced scrutiny over its portrayal of African Americans and the perpetuation of racial stereotypes, primarily through the character of Uncle Remus, played by James Baskett. Critics argue that the film reflects a problematic narrative that emerged from an era characterized by racial segregation.

In response to concerns about representation, Disney hired African-American writer Clarence Muse as a consultant during the script’s development. Unfortunately, Muse’s suggestions for more dignified portrayals of African Americans were largely disregarded, leading to his departure from the project. Despite Baskett receiving acclaim for his performance, the complexities surrounding his character and the film’s underlying themes continue to cast a shadow over its legacy.

Disney’s Approach to Obscuring the Film

Over the years, Disney has sought to distance itself from Song of the South due to its controversial themes. The company has deliberately tried to obscure the film’s existence, choosing not to include it on streaming platforms like Disney+ or in significant media collections, including its 100th Anniversary box set. This absence signals a desire to maintain a polished image that aligns with modern values.

This strategy has frustrated some fans who feel Disney’s attempts to suppress the film overlook meaningful discussions about representation and cultural accountability. The ongoing conversations surrounding Song of the South highlight a broader societal debate about how historical media should be confronted and remembered. Supporters of the film advocate for its reevaluation, pointing out that acknowledging the past is essential for understanding and addressing contemporary issues of race and representation in media.

As fans continue to rally for the revival of Song of the South, the discourse emphasizes the need for balance in recognizing the film’s contributions and flaws. The effort to bring the film back into the public sphere reflects a nuanced approach to Disney’s complex history and its ongoing impact on culture.