What's your take on things like Batman, Spiderman etc, they're clearly fantasy but do you think kids will grow up thinking if a radio active spider bites them they'll suddenly be able climb walls and swing from the ceiling?
Just trying to understand an alien thought pattern that's all, not that I think you're an Alien obviously, but you know what I mean.
No, I don't think kids will think spiders will give them super powers after watching Spiderman. It's not about one particular film or genre, it's about films and TV relentlessly trotting out limiting stereotypes, eg. a woman's main aim in life should be to find a man to marry, or a man has to be tough.
It's not that specific films are responsible, but the effect of that kind of representation over many years is cumulative. A film I have a lot of affection for is Mr Blandings Builds His Dream House. In retrospect, the character of the black servant is very much a demeaning charicature. I don't think it made me view American black women in a negative way because it was just one film, but if I lived in the US and was bombarded with that kind of stereotype, I expect it would have a negative effect.
Also, it's about widening what is available. It's fine to watch old films/books with male and female stereotypes as long as there are other films/books to choose from too.