Sunday, September 14, 2008

Frozone

In Disney and Pixar's The Incredibles, a movie I liked very much, we are introduced to the Superhero Frozone voiced by Samuel L. Jackson. The character is likable right away but the codename bothered me. I understand the play on the word "frozen" since the hero's powers are based on freezing things but "fro"? He has no afro so I have to assume he's called Frozone because he's Black. I suppose it's better than calling him Black Ice, though not by much. I guess we haven't outgrown putting a Black character's color in his name.

Frozone's powers are like that of comic book characters, Iceman, and Ice. In fact he seems to be a combination of the two. As far as his representation of Black people I'd say he's a little better than middle of the road. The character is interesting but not exciting enough to stand in his own movie or comic book. Shooting ice from your fingertips is not a bad power. His character is married and he appears to be faithful except for moonlighting as a superhero. In fact his wife knows about his abilites and alter ego. The hero is clearly Black in look, voice, and attitude but also very non-threatening which enables him to appeal to all ages and people. He was number one on the list of Black Voices dubious list of the Top 25 Black Superheroes.

Disney has done right by the character in terms of marketing and exposure. They gave him a secret identity, (Lucius Best), and bit of a life outside being a Superhero. He has multiple action figures both in and out of costume. He even appears at Disney venues much like Snow White and Mickey Mouse. You can even have your picture taken with Frozone. I look forward to see what becomes of this character.

1 comment:

become_a_superhero said...

Become A SUPERHERO was founded in 2005, by Web474 Graphics, LLC., as a way of giving back to unfortunate children. Collecting unwrapped toys and distributing these toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community is our goal. In the future we hope to expand and conduct more events not just at Christmas, but through out the whole year.

On Dec. 05th, 2008 Web474 Graphics, LLC will hold a family charity event 6-8pm (open to the public) @ Funtime Junction in Fairfield, NJ. . This year, besides the 2008 “Become A SUPERHERO Holiday event, we are publishing the first ever “Become A SUPERHERO” charity comic book. Special invited guest to be announced. All proceeds will be donated to Children's Aid and Family Services in Paramus, New Jersey.

Children's Aid and Family Services. What this organization does best is help local people, one by one. Each year, thousands of people turn to Children's Aid and Family Services for help in improving their lives in some way. Each year, thousands of people are helped by the agency. Whether it is working to find a child an adoptive family, providing life skills counseling, presenting educational workshops, or coaching people to nurture healthier babies, Children's Aid and Family Services is changing lives and building futures.