The decision to change Lola Bunny’s appearance in “Space Jam: A New Legacy” was based on a desire to move away from the sexualized portrayal of the character. In the original “Space Jam” movie released in 1996, Lola Bunny was depicted with a curvier figure and more revealing outfit, which some critics argued contributed to the objectification of the character.
Director Malcolm D. Lee explained that he wanted to present Lola Bunny as a more fully realized and empowered character in the sequel. He felt that the redesign was necessary to align with the film’s modern and inclusive approach. The decision was made to give Lola a more athletic and less sexualized appearance, emphasizing her skills on the basketball court rather than her physical attributes.
It is worth noting that the decision to change Lola Bunny’s appearance sparked a significant amount of backlash and controversy. Some fans of the original film were unhappy with the redesign, arguing that it was unnecessary and took away from the character’s original charm. However, Lee and the creative team behind the film stood by their decision, stating that they wanted to create a version of Lola Bunny that would resonate with a broader audience and reflect contemporary values.
In the Entertainment Weekly interview, both Lee and voice actress Zendaya expressed surprise at the level of outrage over the redesign. They believed that the changes were in line with the film’s intention to update and evolve the characters for a new generation. Zendaya, who provides the voice for Lola Bunny in the film, stated that she was excited to portray the character in a way that showcased her strength and athleticism.
Ultimately, the decision to change Lola Bunny’s appearance in “Space Jam: A New Legacy” was motivated by a desire to present a more modern and inclusive portrayal of the character. While the redesign may have sparked controversy, the filmmakers believed that it was important to move away from the sexualized depiction of Lola Bunny and instead focus on her skills and personality as a strong female character.