Disney has always made big business out of turning fairy tales into box office blockbusters. But not every adorably animated character we’ve decorated our rooms with, dressed up as on Halloween, or themed our 10th birthday party after is actually worthy of such high adolescent praise. In fact, a good majority of Disney stories come from pretty dark and murky material. And that handsome prince we’ve been waiting for to sweep us off our feet? Turns out he’s kind of a dick. So these are the dark Disney character origins you never knew about.
Elsa (“Frozen”)
The Disney version: Elsa is the reluctant heir to Arendelle, who has the ability to manipulate ice and snow. When her powers go a little haywire, she retreats into hiding, only to discover that she’s no villain but a misunderstood protagonist instead.