Questions for Sarah to Answer

This page has different questions that I want Sarah West to answer. These questions are based on movies and TV shows that she has already watched, books that she's already read, and video games she's already played, as well as movies and TV shows that she should try watching, books that she should try reading, and video games that she should try playing.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

 * If characters like Snow White were created today, how would they be different? What elements of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs make it a classic fairy tale?
 * How is the violence in Snow White different than the violence in other Disney movies?
 * Snow White is a traditional damsel in distress. How have depictions of princesses and heroines changed since 1937?
 * Why is the Queen jealous of Snow White? Why is being beautiful so important to her? Does she learn humility or empathy?
 * How does Snow White demonstrate courage, compassion, and integrity in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs? Why are these important character strengths?

Cinderella

 * Think about how the women are depicted in the movie. What kinds of stereotypes about appearance and behavior do you notice? Why are the stepsisters ugly and Cinderella pretty? What would the story be like if Cinderella was ugly?
 * If you had a fairy godmother, what would you like her to do for you? Or would you like to be a fairy godmother? Whose wish would you grant?
 * How does Cinderella demonstrate compassion, empathy, and gratitude? Why are these important character strengths?

The Princess Twins of Legendale

 * In the film, Princess Dawn wants to explore to learn more about her past, while her father discourages it. Do you like exploring? Where? How can we explore to learn new things while staying safe?
 * In the film, Princess Dawn and her father, King Solter, disagree about the value of going off on your own, but in a way they are both right that it's worth doing, but not always safe. Have you ever had a disagreement with someone when you were both right? What happened? How did you resolve it?
 * In the movie, there is a lot of generalizing and stereotyping about what the people from the other world are like. Why is it bad to generalize or make assumptions about groups of people? How can we avoid doing that?

Tangled
The message in the movie teaches the viewers that it's never too late to realize a dream -- whether it's seeing lanterns or becoming a pianist. Do you have any "someday" dreams?
 * How is Rapunzel similar to and different from other Disney princesses? Is she the typical damsel in distress? How does she show the traits of courage, curiosity, and empathy over the course of the movie?
 * Do you think Mother loved Rapunzel, or was she just using her? What about Rapunzel's feelings for Mother? Why did Rapunzel think Flynn wouldn't love her if she didn't have her magical blond hair anymore?
 * How do the characters in Tangled demonstrate gratitude, integrity, and self-control? Why are these important character strengths?

An American Tail

 * Think about the scary parts of An American Tail. What exactly makes a movie scary -- music, images, or your own imagination? What makes some movies thrilling, and others too frightening? How much scary stuff can you handle?
 * How does Fievel demonstrate perseverance and courage? Why are those important character strengths?
 * Has your family -- recently or in past generations -- had any experience with immigration? Is there anything in the movie that you can relate to?

Thumbelina

 * Do you like fairy tales? If so, then why do you like these types of stories? Is there such a thing as a fairy tale ending? What are some of your favorite fairy tales, and why?
 * What would this story look like if the boy and girl roles were reversed? Can you imagine a boy being kidnapped to be a husband and then being rescued by his true love, a princess?
 * Imagine if you were asked to create your own fairy tale. What characters would you have? How about the setting?

Once Upon a Forest

 * Talk about the movie's environmental message. How do humans affect the homes of creatures like rats, badgers, moles, and gophers?
 * How can we coexist with the creatures that live in our midst?
 * What forest animals have you seen in real life? Take a nature walk and observe the different creatures you see.

The Secret of NIMH

 * Talk about scariness in movies like The Secret of NIMH. Which parts were the scariest? What made these scenes scary? Would the movie have been more or less scary if it weren't animated?
 * Talk about animals in laboratories. Why are they there? How does your family feel about animal testing? Are there situations in which you think it might be merited? Why or why not?
 * How do the characters in The Secret of NIMH demonstrate teamwork, perseverance, and courage? Why are those important character strengths?

Ferngully: The Last Rainforest

 * Talk about how Ferngully: The Last Rainforest illustrates the importance of conserving the Earth's natural resources, and research the role that trees, and other plants, play in the environment.
 * How do you feel about movies that have a strong message? Does it distract from or enhance the entertainment value?
 * Can you imagine this movie as a live-action film? If so, then who do you think would play the various roles? (Remember, they have to be actors who have starred in other live-action movies. Look up a few if you don't know which actors will play the various roles)
 * How do the characters in Ferngully: The Last Rainforest demonstrate compassion, curiosity, and courage? Why are these important character strengths?

101 Dalmatians

 * Talk about the responsibilities of raising a pet, as Roger and Anita do in 101 Dalmatians. Do kids think they would be able to maintain enthusiasm for their pet? Would they be responsible for feeding, brushing, playing, and walking it? What kind of commitment is it to raise a pet, particularly a dog?
 * What makes Cruella scary? Can you think of any other villians as scary as her? What similarities do all villains share?
 * How do the dogs in 101 Dalmatians demonstrate teamwork? Why is this an important character strength?

The Aristocats

 * Talk about the movie's main villain, Edgar the butler. He doesn't seem really mean like Cruella De Vil, but he's still not nice to Madame's cats. How come?

Lady and the Tramp

 * Talk about the differences between Lady and the Tramp. What are the benefits of their different lifestyles? What do they learn from each other?
 * Talk about the era this movie is set in. Can you spot any old-fashioned images? How do men and women act in the movie that's different from today?
 * How do the characters in Lady and the Tramp demonstrate integrity and humility? Why are these important character strengths?

The Swan Princess

 * Talk about what inspired The Swan Princess: the story of "Swan Lake," the ballet. It might be fun to read the ballet story and see what the two tales have in common.
 * Why did Odette refuse to marry Prince Derek when he first asked her? What was she hoping he would say?
 * The music here is more contemporary than in most animated fairy tales. How did the modern songs and dancing add an element of humor and energize this old-fashioned story?
 * Do you think the King's early leniency toward Lord Rothbart was a mistake? Other than destroying the villain, what could the king have done to ensure that the villain didn't cause any more trouble?

The Great Mouse Detective

 * Talk about why stories like The Great Mouse Detective about detectives solving crimes are so engrossing. Is it because in this case, it's clear who's good and who's evil? How are mysteries with obvious villains and heroes different than mysteries where you don't know who committed the crimes being investigated?
 * How closely does the plot follow a Sherlock Holmes mystery? Why are absurdly clever detectives such a popular "type" in crime stories? Did you know the Sherlock Holmes in the movie is voiced by the actor who played him in the classic 1940s films?
 * Roy Disney said this movie was in the "mouse cannon" of Disney films, because the studio was founded on a mouse. What are some other great Disney mice movies?
 * How do the characters in The Great Mouse Detective demonstrate courage and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?

The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under

 * Talk about how The Rescuers, made in the 1970s, is different from animated movies they see today. Can you tell the movie was made a long time ago? If so, what gives it away?
 * Discuss the villain Medusa. What makes her an especially good villain? Who's your favorite villain in the movies or in books? Why? And why do stories always have villians? What would stories be like without them?
 * How do the characters in The Rescuers demonstrate integrity, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
 * Talk about how The Rescuers Down Under compares to the original. Which do you prefer, and why?
 * How does The Rescuers Down Under show teamwork? How does it promote courage? Why are these important /character-strengths-and-life-skills/character-strengths-and-life-skills?

Supernanny

 * Talk about the behaviors of the children in the show and the strategies utilized to overcome those behaviors. Were these strategies successful? Do they think the parents will be able to keep up these strategies when Supernanny and the cameras leave? Is it realistic to solve a discipline problem so quickly and easily? And finally, how do cultural factors play a role in parenting?
 * Talk about the methods used in this show. Do you think a week is long enough to for families to overcome established patterns of behavior? How do you think these patterns began in the first place? Do you think the improved changes featured are real, or will they stop once the cameras stop rolling?
 * What is the difference between a child care specialist and a child behavioral psychologist? Do you think someone with a psychology or medical background would offer different advice from what is featured here?

Sailor Moon

 * Talk about the lack of action-oriented animated series aimed at girls. What are your favorite female superheroes? What makes superheroes good role models for girls?
 * Talk about the different beliefs and views that different cultures have regarding life after death. If you could be reincarnated into anything, what would you be? If reincarnation were real, what do you think your last life might have been like?
 * Talk about body image in the media. The Sailor Scout uniforms are very short and the Scouts themselves are all thin with exaggerated figures. What types of images are girls shown in the media and does that affect what they view as attractive? Do the images that girls see affect how they view themselves?
 * What does this show intend to say about girls' capabilities? Do they face any challenges they can't manage without the help of a boy? Is this a positive message?

Winx Club

 * Talk about body image. What do you think of the way the characters' bodies are drawn? How does what you see on TV and in movies influence your impression of what's attractive?
 * Are any of the characters in this show good role models? If so, who? What qualities are important to you in a role model? Who are some of your role models?
 * What role does stereotyping play in entertainment? How do writers use stereotyping for comedy? Are there instances in which this type of content isn't funny? Can stereotyping ever teach a lesson?

Pokemon

 * Talk about the popularity of Pokémon in the United States. Why do people of all ages find it appealing? What are the most popular Pokémon? Why?
 * What are the differences between Pokémon and real-life pets. How do Ash and his friends care for their Pokémon? How do we care for pets differently? Why are the Pokémon loyal to them and fight on their behalf? How about Team Rocket? Can we ever expect animals to fight on our behalf?
 * In Diamond And Pearl, Ash, Brock, and Dawn are able to work well together despite the fact that they're at different levels of Pokémon training. How are they able to do it? What are the challenges they face when working with each other?

Strawberry Shortcake's Berry Bitty Adventures

 * How do your friendships compare to those of Strawberry Shortcake and her pals? How do their actions show that they care about each other? What nice things do you and your friends do for each other to show you care?
 * What challenges do the characters face in each episode? What were some of their options for dealing with those challenges? If you were in their shoes, would you have handled things differently? If so, what would you have done?
 * Why do you think Strawberry Shortcake has been a popular character for so long? What do you like most about her? Who are some of your other favorite characters? What do you learn from watching these characters?

Sonic Underground

 * Talk about the type of society portrayed in this show. Do individual freedoms exist? What are the penalties for exercising freedom? Does anyone benefit from such a setup?
 * Do you believe in destiny? In what ways do we decide our own fate? How might this ability be different in a dystopian society like the one in the show?
 * Sonic, Manic, and Sonia show that sibling relationships aren't always easy. How do you resolve differences that arise in your family? Conversely, in what ways does your family serve as a source of strength for you?

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH

 * Talk about animal research. Do you think this book supports or condemns experimentation on animals? If you could receive shots to increase your intelligence, would you want them?

Adventure Time

 * How does Adventure Time compare to the real world? What aspects of Finn and Jake's world are rooted in fantasy? Is any of it relevant to the real world? What place does fantasy have in entertainment? Does entertainment always have to have a strong message, or can it just be fun?
 * How is your impression of the world shaped by what you see on TV or in movies? Have you ever changed the way you view something because of something you saw on TV? If so, when? How can we use this power of the media to influence positive change?
 * How does Adventure Time show us that Finn and Jake are friends? What have you learned about friendship by watching the show? Do any of the characters remind you of your friends, family, or people you know?
 * Why does Finn sometimes use weapons or violence to solve problems? What would happen in real life if a kid used the same kinds of weapons? Do you think it's funny to watch mild violence like this? Can you separate Finn's use of weapons with what's appropriate in real life?
 * How do the characters in Adventure Time demonstrate courage and curiosity? Why are these important character strengths?

The Amazing World of Gumball
*How do you handle stress? What kinds of things stress you out the most? How does stress affect your body and mind? How does it impact your ability to do well in school or participate in extracurricular activities? What coping techniques exist to help?
 * Do you find this show funny? What parts of it do you like the most? How does the animation style contribute to the comedy? Which characters strike you as the funniest? Why?

The Powerpuff Girls

 * Think about the show's violence. Why do all the girls' problems need to be solved via mayhem and destruction? Is it the villains' fault, or could the girls resolve their conflicts in other ways? Do you think viewers are meant to take the violence seriously, or is it all "good cartoon fun"? Can the littlest viewers understand the distinction?
 * This show mixes violence with positive messages. Does the fighting ever seem realistic, or is it meant to be funny? In either case, how can you tell? Does the fact that there is violence overshadow what positive content there is, especially in the Powerpuff Girls' personal lives?
 * Is it as easy to separate good and bad in real life as it is in cartoons such as this one? What family and/or school rules do you have that are meant to help keep you safe? In contrast, by what rules do the Powerpuff Girls live? Would these work in the real world?
 * Are Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles good role models for kids? For girls in particular? Is violence always their answer to every problem? How do they communicate their feelings to each other to resolve issues that affect their relationship?

Yu-Gi-Oh

 * Talk about how this show is connected to its companion card game. Do you think there would be a show without the game, and vice versa? Do you have to know how to play the game to enjoy the show?
 * The series’ take on Egyptian history is total make-believe. What makes the show’s take on Egyptian history so different from real Egyptian history?

Stoked

 * How do gender roles/expectations play out on the show? The show's best male and female surfers often argue over who's better, a debate that sometimes takes on overtones of sexism (as in “You’re pretty good, for a girl"). Do you think men and women can compete as equals in some sports?

Total Drama

 * The characters are purposely presented as one-dimensional stereotypes -- because that's what producers of real reality shows often do to people through judicious editing. If someone only filmed and showed certain moments in your day, could they make you look mean or whiny? Why would someone want to focus on those parts of your character for a reality show?
 * Why are competition shows like American Idol, Survivor, and The Bachelor so popular?
 * Do you like watching these types of shows? How are they different from traditional game shows? Do you think the content is really “real”?
 * Do you think spoofs could change how we view real reality shows?
 * What role do stereotypes play in comedy? Is it possible to totally eliminate stereotypes from TV shows or movies? Are there any cases in which stereotypes can be portrayed in a positive way?
 * How does competition teach us life lessons? What value exists in falling short of our goal? How does it feel to win? Why are sportsmanship and fair play important in competition?

Inuyasha

 * Think about what this show has in common with other anime series -- and what sets it apart. What makes it more kid-friendly than other anime shows? What makes it a fantasy? What are the main differences between fantasy and science fiction genres? What do you think it means to work together as a team? What happens when one member of a team loses patience and strikes out on their own? How does that affect the rest of the team?

The Fairly OddParents

 * What does Timmy learn from making his wishes?
 * If you had fairy godparents, what would you wish for? How would your life change if these wishes came true?

Regular Show

 * What are some of the real-life consequences of some of the behavior shown in this series — such as the drinking?
 * What audience do you think this show is aimed at? The Cartoon Network’s younger viewers or its Adult Swim fans? Why?
 * If you were to create an animated series, what kinds of characters would it have? How can you create animated characters without relying on stereotypes to tell their stories?

Danger Mouse

 * Do you have to know the genre to enjoy a show that's spoofing it? What are some of your favorite parodies? Are some more critical than others?
 * How does Danger Mouse rank as a heroic cartoon character? What are his best qualities? His shortcomings? Do you have a favorite cartoon hero or heroine?
 * There's a lot of violence in this show. Does it affect you in a negative way? Does the fact that it's presented as a cartoon lessen the impact of what you see?
 * Are the villains presented in this show at all scary or threatening? How do they interact with Danger Mouse and Penfold? Is it always easy to distinguish good and bad in the real world?
 * Why do Danger Mouse and Penfold work well together even though they're very different from each other? Do differences in personality strengthen friendships? When have you experienced this with a friend of yours?
 * Danger Mouse is always traveling around the world and exploring different world cultures. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? What would you like to see and experience there? What do you think would be some of the highlights of a visitor's trip to where you live?

Jane and the Dragon

 * Think about Jane's challenges as she grows up and navigates her social world in Jane and the Dragon. Have you ever had to pick sides among friends? What caused the problem? What was your solution?
 * How do the characters in Jane and the Dragon demonstrate courage and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?

Star vs. the Forces of Evil

 * Think about Star's obligation to her family. Why must she learn to control the Royal Magic Wand? What are the potential consequences to her kingdom if she doesn’t? What responsibilities do you have in your family?
 * How do Star and Marco complement each other's personalities? Would they be better friends if they were more alike, or do their differences play a positive role in their friendship? Who among your friends is very different from you? Does that make your relationship more interesting or more challenging?
 * What role do grown-ups have in this show? Are they ever helpful to the kids? Which adults serve as role models for you, and why?

Star Darlings

 * Why do you think it's important to have dreams? Do you achieve more when you work toward a specific goal? Is it okay to adjust that goal as you get closer to it? What are some of your goals for the future?
 * Which character is your favorite, and why? Does any Star Darling ever display negative qualities? Do those qualities do the story a disservice, or is it good to see this kind of reality in TV relationships?
 * Does what you see on TV or in movies ever influence your behavior? Are there any characters in particular you would consider role models? Are you ever surprised when an actor's real-life behavior contradicts his or her character's?

Yo-Kai Watch

 * Is it always easy to identify when you're sad, angry, or frustrated? Do your feelings sometimes appear without your knowing how and why? What are some constructive ways to cope with them?
 * How do the Yo-Kais' appearances reflect their personalities? Is it always so easy to pick out positive and negative influences in the real world? Have you ever been surprised by a person's real nature after passing judgment on them?
 * Have you heard about or seen the Yo-Kai Watch video games and characters prior to watching this show? If so, did that inspire you to watch? If not, are you curious to try the games now? How does what we see on TV influence the things we want? Is that always a bad thing?

Teen Titans

 * How do the show's violent scenes make you feel? Do you think these fight scenes are intended only to entertain, or are they trying to teach you something about strength, honor, teamwork, and tradition? Does it make you want to learn more about the martial arts? What do these fighters have in common with more traditional superheroes, and how do they differ?
 * Are the Teen Titans role models? Why or why not?
 * Which of the characters' superpowers would you most like to have? How would it help you on an everyday basis? Would it ever be a burden? Which of your special talents can you use to help other people?

The Princess Diaries

 * The movie focuses on growing up, making choices, and making mistakes. Explain some of your own mistakes and fears and what you did to move on from them. Do you think it’s important to be loyal to true friends?
 * How does this movie address verbal bullying? Does it seem accurate or overblown? Why?
 * How are themes of friendship, popularity, taking chances, and being true to yourself addressed in this movie?
 * How does Mia learn and demonstrate gratitude and integrity in The Princess Diaries? Why are these important character strengths?

Atomic Betty

 * Who are some of your heroes? How would you define a hero? What qualities are most important to you in selecting a role model? How can their actions change how you feel about them?
 * Talk about responsibility. What are your responsibilities at home and in school? Who determines these responsibilities? Do you think they’re fair? How are people responsible for each other?
 * How does this cartoon compare with some of your favorites? Did it strike you as funny? What did you think of the characters? Could you relate to Betty?

Monsuno

 * Have you ever been put in a tough position you didn't expect? How did you cope? How do these experiences make you stronger? What can you learn from them?
 * What are some scientific discoveries and/or inventions that have greatly changed our society? What improvements did they make? Were there any negative effects from them? Can you think of an instance in which the bad might outweigh the good for a new discovery?
 * What are the benefits of being part of a team? How do teammates bring out the best in you? What do you do when you and your friends disagree about a course of action?

Slugterra

 * What makes some people bullies? How do they use their physical appearance to intimidate? What are some good coping techniques for dealing with bullies?
 * What causes do you believe in strongly? How do these causes reflect your personal interests? How can you use technology to learn about these causes? What can you and your family do to help fight for these and other good works?
 * Do you think of any people in real life as villains? How do their actions hurt others? What do they gain from the process? Whom do you see standing up to them and to what degree of success?

We Bare Bears

 * Do you usually get along with your sibling? What kinds of things do you enjoy doing together? What are the more difficult aspects of having siblings? How do the siblings on We Bare Bears get along?
 * Why do the bears want to be part of a society that's not their natural one? How does it feel to be excluded from something? Why is it important to be mindful in including others in what you're doing?
 * This show implies that it's simple to generalize about today's society and its population. Are people as easy to stereotype as this? Is it offensive to make this kind of statement about "everyone"? Does the fact that it's made in jest change how it's received?
 * How do the characters on We Bare Bears demonstrate teamwork? Why is this an important character strength?

The Life and Times of Juniper Lee

 * Think about gender roles and stereotypes -- why aren't there more TV heroines like Juniper?
 * What powers would you want if you were a superhero?

W.I.T.C.H.

 * Why do you think working as a team is so important? Which real-life activities at school help promote teamwork? They can also address the show's stereotypes. When the girls tease Cornelia for being a "dumb blonde," are they taking it too far? How would you react to such teasing? Another topic of discussion could be how to use power responsibly. What would you do if you were given a special power? How would you use it for good? Finally, how do you think is the best way to handle a crush? What's a good way to let someone know you like them? If you don't really like someone who has a crush on you, how can you be honest without hurting their feelings?

The Mighty B

 * Think about setting and achieving goals. What do you think of Bessie's goal to be the Mighty Bee? Does it seem like something she can realistically achieve? Why or why not? What are some of your lifelong goals? How do you plan to achieve them? Do you have any role models who inspire you? Who are they? Think about Bessie's behavior. Is asking for something over and over really the best way to get it? How do you think people would react to Bessie in real life? Does exaggerating behavior make it funny? Why or why not?

Shuriken School

 * Think about the time when you were adjusting to a new school. How did you make friends? What can be frightening about a new place? Can changes like that also be exciting? Discuss how Eizan and his friends solve problems. What was difficult about the challenge they faced? What skills did they use to conquer it? When have you taken on a challenge? Who helped you?

The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius

 * Talk about the inventions Jimmy creates and what he has learned from each of his gadget-driven adventures. What is the relationship between Jimmy and his schoolmates? What are the pressures and demands that his reputation as a "boy genius" have on him?

Sushi Pack

 * Talk about resolving conflict. How do the Sushi Pack friends resolve their differences? Is it ever a difficult process? How do they make sure their friends' feelings are respected?
 * Have you ever had to smooth things over with a friend? How did you do it? Were things the same afterward?
 * What different methods do the team members have when it comes to dealing with their enemies? What role does violence play in their actions? Do you think it's ever possible to talk things out with someone who doesn't see eye to eye with you?

Gnomeo and Juliet

 * Think about what makes Romeo and Juliet such a timeless story. What's so fascinating about "doomed love"? What are some other movies loosely based on Romeo and Juliet?
 * Why couldn't the blue and red gnomes get along? Did the gnomes have understandable reasons for wanting to get back at each other? How else could they have solved their problems?
 * The William Shakespeare statue jokes that the original story doesn't end well; how did the filmmakers modify the ending here? Do you think it's okay to change a classic story? In this version, what motivates the two sides to come together?