MAPACA

Mid-Atlantic Popular &
American Culture Association

This panel delves into the analysis of the popular representation of action heroes (Zorro) or popular cultural traditions (Coco) and the misrepresentation of some cultural aspects (The Emperor’s New Groove).

Martha Kosir states that “Coco speaks not only to the changing global cultural context, but also to the continued importance of local and family traditions.” Amanda Frantz-Mamani writes that The Emperor’s New Groove is a morality tale about an Inca emperor named Kuzco. To children and adults, it was a typical Disney film.” Frantz_Mamani agrees with Helaine Silverman that “these films are interpreted uncritically by most viewers.” Sharon Reeves examines Zorro, “ one of the most intriguing and highly regarded action figures, a dual-identity hero forever linked to California’s triple identity: Spanish, Mexican, and American.”