Disney’s The Black Cauldron: Gothic and horror narratives as therapeutic framework for childhood trauma and adolescent development

This article examines Disney’s 1985 animated film The Black Cauldron as a Gothic narrative that provides therapeutic benefits for children and adolescents aged 6–18 experiencing grief, trauma, loss and adolescent challenges. Through an analysis of the film’s unique combination of horror elements and humour, this study demonstrates how gothic children’s cinema can serve as an educational tool for developing coping mechanisms and resilience. The research employs child development theory and cinematherapy principles to argue that The Black Cauldron , despite its initial critical reception, offers valuable opportunities for parents to facilitate difficult conversations about trauma, bullying and adolescent challenges. The findings suggest that Gothic narratives in children’s media, when properly mediated by adults, can contribute significantly to emotional and moral development.