Chosen Jacobs Unpacks ‘Sneakerella’: A Modern Disney Fairy Tale for the Next Generation

Disney+ is set to captivate audiences with its vibrant new musical, Sneakerella, a fresh and contemporary reimagining of the classic Cinderella story. This exciting film takes the beloved fairy tale and infuses it with a gender-swapped narrative, set against the backdrop of vibrant New York City sneaker culture. At its heart is El, an aspiring sneaker designer from Queens, brought to life by the talented Chosen Jacobs. In an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife, Jacobs delves into the film’s innovative approach, its empowering themes, and the electric musical numbers that define its unique spirit.

Sneakerella introduces us to El, a young man with a boundless passion for sneakers and an ambitious dream of becoming a renowned designer. However, his reality is a stark contrast to his aspirations. He works as a humble stock boy in the very shoe store that once belonged to his late mother, a poignant reminder of his heritage and the dreams he hopes to fulfill. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Kira King, the dynamic daughter of Darius King, a legendary sneaker tycoon. This chance meeting ignites a spark, setting the stage for a story that challenges traditional fairy tale tropes and champions self-belief.

One of the aspects Chosen Jacobs particularly admires about Sneakerella is its groundbreaking approach to the narrative. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I love how the movie flipped it to where even though there’s still love, no one’s waiting for someone to come save them. You still have to go out there and put your best foot forward.” This sentiment is central to the film’s message, emphasizing agency and determination over passive longing. El’s journey isn’t about waiting for a magical intervention; it’s about actively pursuing his dreams and seizing opportunities. He clarifies, “I don’t meet Kira if I don’t make the shoe, and she’ll never find me if she doesn’t put out the post, so I think it just promotes a healthier vision of what love really requires, which is a little bit of bravery and a little bit of effort.”

This modern interpretation resonates deeply, reflecting a more realistic and empowering view of relationships and personal ambition. It teaches young viewers that while connection and affection are vital, they are often the result of courageously stepping forward and investing in oneself and one’s passions. Both El and Kira are proactive individuals, not damsels or princes in distress, making their eventual connection all the more meaningful and earned. Their story is a testament to the power of self-belief and the idea that true success, in both love and career, comes from within.

The film’s dynamic soundtrack is another significant draw, and for Chosen, the music was a major highlight. He specifically pointed to “Kicks,” an electrifying, high-octane musical number that serves as the film’s opening. This sequence immediately immerses the audience into El’s vibrant world in Queens, showcasing his environment, his dreams, and the energetic pulse of the city that inspires him. The song is a celebration of sneaker culture, creativity, and the youthful spirit that permeates the film.

“‘Kicks’ was definitely the tone-setter,” Chosen explained. “We knew that was going to be the intro to the movie, and I want that to feel like a party. I want it to feel like get your mama, get your grandmama, and let’s get up and let’s move.” This infectious energy is designed to instantly engage viewers, regardless of age, inviting them into El’s journey with exuberance and joy. The song not only sets the stage visually and musically but also metaphorically, laying the foundation for El’s aspirations. “That definitely has to be the cornerstone of who I think El is because that’s his dream, and that’s really what the whole movie is about is him trying to reach that,” Jacobs added, highlighting how “Kicks” encapsulates El’s core motivation and the central theme of the film: the pursuit of one’s deepest desires.

Chosen Jacobs’ personal connection to musicals undoubtedly enhanced his performance in Sneakerella. Growing up, he “lived” for movie musicals, specifically citing the phenomenon of High School Musical as a significant influence. “I lived for the songs. I lived to learn those dances with my sister and see who could pull it off,” he reminisced. This early passion for musical storytelling equipped him with a natural rhythm and understanding of the genre, allowing him to fully immerse himself in the world of Sneakerella. His childhood experiences of learning choreography and memorizing lyrics with his sister provided a foundational appreciation for the magic that only a well-executed musical can deliver. This personal history made taking on a role in a Disney+ musical a dream come true, enabling him to bring an authentic energy and heart to El’s character.

Sneakerella transcends being just a modern twist on a classic tale; it’s a celebration of individuality, creativity, and the courage to forge your own path. The film encourages viewers, especially younger audiences, to embrace their unique talents and pursue their passions with unwavering conviction. By focusing on El’s ambition as a sneaker designer, the movie also shines a light on the burgeoning subculture of streetwear and custom footwear, making it incredibly relevant and relatable to today’s youth. The story skillfully weaves themes of loss, resilience, and the power of community, as El navigates challenges and finds support from his friends and mentors.

The choice to set the story in Queens, New York, further grounds the fairy tale in a tangible, diverse, and creatively rich environment. This setting adds another layer of authenticity, showcasing a landscape where dreams are often forged through hustle and determination. The film embraces the vibrant energy and cultural mosaic of Queens, making it a character in itself and providing a perfect backdrop for El’s journey from an unknown stock boy to a potential design sensation.

In essence, Sneakerella is more than just entertainment; it’s an inspiring narrative that redefines what it means to be a hero in the 21st century. It’s about finding your voice, expressing yourself through your craft, and understanding that the greatest love stories are often those where two individuals empower each other to achieve their fullest potential. Chosen Jacobs and the entire cast deliver a performance that is both heartfelt and exhilarating, ensuring that this contemporary fairy tale leaves a lasting impression. Fans eager to experience this groundbreaking musical can stream Sneakerella exclusively on Disney+ starting May 13.