This critical analysis highlights the appropriation of indigenous culture and the perpetuation of stereotypes in Disney's Pocahontas (1995). The film relies on racial archetypes such as the "lovely Indian princess" and the "wise Chief" while employing the "white savior" trope. Pocahontas, despite being the title character, lacks autonomy and is overshadowed by John Smith. The film's representation of Pocahontas deviates from her historical persona, and her hyper-sexualized portrayal weakens her as an indigenous woman. The analysis criticizes Hollywood's persistent stereotypes of American Indians, which have influenced films like Pocahontas, perpetuating misconceptions and fostering microaggressions against the indigenous community. The analysis calls for more accurate and respectful portrayals of Native American culture in media, particularly in children's films.​

This academic essay critically analyzes the stereotypical portrayals of Chinese and Chinese American characters in twentieth-century children's media. The essay examines several examples, including the animated short "Harem Scarem" (1928), the film The Mask of Fu Manchu (1932), the graphic novel "Tintin and the Blue Lotus" (1936), and the segment "The Nutcracker Suite" from the film Fantasia (1940). The analysis highlights the prevalent stereotypes and their correlation with the social conditions between China and the United States during that period. It also explores the influence of Hollywood on shaping the perception of China in the minds of American youth and the broader cultural implications of these representations.

The evolution of everyone's favorite blue Genie, from Disney's Aladdin, in the parks, on ice & Broadway!

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Provided historical research and image and video sourcing for the Disney Dan Youtube channel.

Maleficent has been terrorizing Disney Parks for decades, going up against the forces of good. Check out her evolution in Disney Parks and Beyond!

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Provided historical research and image and video sourcing for the Disney Dan Youtube channel.

This essay explores the adaptation of the Disneyland attraction "Pirates of the Caribbean" into a successful film franchise. The essay discusses the history of the ride, its popularity, and the decision to adapt it into a movie. It also delves into the film's production process, including the involvement of original director Gore Verbinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer. The essay highlights the film's use of visual cues and iconic images from the ride, as well as the incorporation of camera techniques to mimic the experience of the attraction for the adaptation.

This academic essay explores the life of Margaret Brown, famously known as "Unsinkable" Molly Brown, and her role in the aftermath of the Titanic disaster. The paper discusses her experiences as a first-class passenger on the Titanic, her involvement in the survivor's recovery efforts, and her subsequent rise to prominence as a public figure and advocate for the Titanic survivors. It delves into the luxurious features, strict class segregation aboard the Titanic, and the events leading up to the ship's tragic sinking on April 14, 1912. The paper also highlights Brown's philanthropic work, her passion for travel, and her impact on popular culture. It presents a comprehensive account of Margaret Brown's life and significant contributions during and after the Titanic disaster.

This academic essay explores the complexities and contradictions surrounding the protagonist, Silence, in the 13th-century French epic "Romance de Silence" by Heldris de Cornuälle. The essay argues that Silence, who is forced to live as a man due to societal circumstances, faces gender oppression and struggles with her identity throughout the story. Silence's journey is marked by gender oppression, limited agency, and the perpetual struggle to claim her identity. The linguistic and narrative devices used in the epic contribute to the suppression of her voice and the denial of her true self.

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Recognized by the Mills College Women's Gender and Sexuality department and received first place for the best academic piece (2009).