Disney has always had a gorgeous affinity for making Christmas seem even more magical, and their latest short Christmas film, The Step Dad, is no exception.
Against the angelic vocals of South Africa’s own Lloyiso who sings Love Runs Deep, the story of family building their first Christmas together is told.
The short is touching for a myriad of reasons beyond the child-like wonder, soft Christmas hues, gingerbread love and snowmen-building escapades.
The Step Dad normalises that everyone’s family setup is unique. The portrayal of a multi-racial family and the stepdad’s navigation into his stepchildren’s hearts is not only special, but true to many people’s real-life family dynamics. It shows us the joys of Christmas are not only reserved for the ‘traditional family’ which is all-important, especially for children.
Cute things to look out for in the short
The magic storybook
The children’s storybook brings tales to life. Mickey and Minnie glide out of the book on snowy dreams, Buzz Lightyear steps out to reach for the sky, and Moana’s waves crash from her world into the little family’s. As Disney notes, the tale is about storytelling and
and the magic created by reading together
You might recognise the mom in the story
Nicole, the granddaughter from ‘Lola’, and her two children Max and Ella, as new stepdad Mike moves into their family home.
Lloyiso’s Loe runs deeper
penned for the advert, which provides a musical narrative to the film through the eyes of Mike in lieu of any dialogue.
Lloyiso, who performs ‘Love Runs Deeper’ for the South African version of the advert said: “I was thrilled to get involved with Disney’s Christmas campaign. I was immediately taken by the lyrics of ‘Love Runs Deeper’ and it’s powerful, emotive message within a story that celebrates family, traditions and love. I can’t wait to share this wonderful story with South African families this festive season.”
WATCH: THE STEPDAD | Disney Christmas Advert 2021
Picture: Supplied