LGBTQ Representation in Disney's Movie "Elemental"

Disney has made gradual progress in recent years towards more meaningful LGBTQ representation in its films, though the studio still lags behind its promises and society's shifting expectations. With each new release featuring a queer character, whether substantial or subtle, Disney invites both hope and skepticism - hope that this time they will get it 'right,' and skepticism based on past disappointments. Their latest animated film, Elemental, premiered in June 2023 featuring Pixar's first ever nonbinary character, a milestone that brings measured optimism.

Nonbinary Representation in Elemental

In Elemental, the nonbinary character Lake Ripple is voiced by nonbinary actor Ava Kai Hauser. Lake uses they/them pronouns and has a partner whom they met at art school. While a side character compared to the main romance plot between the fiery Ember and watery Wade, Lake's presence is history-making. On Twitter, Hauser shared their excitement over voicing "Pixar's first nonbinary character." For Hauser and for nonbinary visibility, this casting is significant. Though a supporting role, Lake appears to be written thoughtfully as a queer individual, not just an Easter egg or techicality.

Lake Ripple emerges after years of Disney hinting at but stopping short of actualizing meaningful queer representation. For example, in recent years Disney hyped up "exclusively gay moments" that manifested as blink-and-you'll-miss-it references. The LGBTQ community has grown increasingly impatient with Disney's baby steps and empty promises. Many see the inclusion of Lake Ripple as overdue but still meaningful progress. This time, a queer identity is not trivialized as a punchline or passing cameo but embodied in a character like any other. Lake simply exists as themself in the world of Elemental.

The Coincidental Timing of The Other Two

In an astonishing case of coincidence, HBO's comedy series The Other Two released an episode satirizing Disney's track record just days before Elemental's premiere. The episode follows aspiring actor Cary Dubek, voiced by Drew Tarver, as he lands a role as Disney's "first unapologetically gay character." This "character" is essentially an animated lump of goo named Globby. The show hilariously skewers Disney for wanting accolades over meaningful representation.

The timing of this savage parody makes Lake Ripple's debut all the more conspicuous. Suddenly Disney can point to Elemental as if to refute The Other Two's criticism. However, one supporting character does not negate Disney's long pattern of shallow gestures. While Lake Ripple is a step forward, whether Disney can commit to lasting, holistic LGBTQ representation remains to be seen.

The Future of Queer Representation at Disney

Lake Ripple's arrival brings optimism but also lingering skepticism. Nonbinary and broader LGBTQ communities have been strung along too many times with too little payoff. Disney's first openly gay main character has yet to emerge from any major franchise film or series. Bigger questions persist around intersections with race, gender, and sexuality. Disney's next steps must include LGBTQ stories not as side notes but at the core, with depth and humanity that resonate with queer audiences.

Elemental does feel promising in its sincerity. Lake Ripple was not reduced to a gimmick but rendered thoughtfully thanks to close collaboration with Hauser. This project was in motion well before The Other Two episode aired, signaling intent to honor an underrepresented identity. With society's landscape rapidly changing, Disney must commit fully to reflecting and empowering marginalized communities. One supporting character cannot satisfy that mandate alone. But Lake Ripple does give hope that Disney wishes to do better, provided that commitment and accountability continue. Elemental could reflect the start of progress, not the end.