Snow White (2025)

Snow White (2025)

Snow White is a 2025 American musical fantasy film directed by Marc Webb and written by Erin Cressida Wilson. Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Marc Platt Productions, it is a live-action reimagining<ref>"Snow White (2025) | Disney Movies". Disney.com. Archived from the original on September 7, 2024. Retrieved September 7, 2024.</ref><ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref> of Walt Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. That animated film was based on the 1812 fairy tale "Snow White" by the Brothers Grimm. Starring Rachel Zegler, Andrew Burnap and Gal Gadot, the new film follows the pure-hearted Snow White (Zegler) who joins forces with seven dwarfs and a bandit named Jonathan (Burnap) to free her kingdom from her cruel stepmother (Gadot).

Plans for a remake of 1937's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs were confirmed in October 2016, with Wilson announced as a screenwriter. Webb entered talks to direct in May 2019 and was announced as director in September 2019. Filming took place primarily in London from March to July 2022, with additional filming and pick-ups in June 2024. With an estimated production budget of $240–270 million, Snow White is one of the most expensive films ever made and Disney's fifteenth-most expensive. Before release, controversies arose about the film related to its color-blind casting, story changes, Zegler's public critiques of the original film, Zegler and Gadot's conflicting political views, and the reimagining of the Seven Dwarfs.

Snow White premiered at Alcázar of Segovia in Segovia, Spain, on March 12, 2025, and was released in the United States by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures on March 21, 2025. It received mixed reviews from critics.

Synopsis

A Princess joins forces with seven dwarfs to liberate her kingdom from her cruel stepmother the Evil Queen.

Plot

A benevolent king and queen welcome their daughter during a snowstorm, naming her Snow White to honor the day. Years later, the queen falls ill and passes away. The king hastily remarries before mounting a campaign against an encroaching threat. When he does not return, the new queen usurps the throne, revealing herself as an enchantress whose vanity surpasses her beauty.

Under the Evil Queen's rule, subjects are either left destitute or conscripted into the royal guard. Snow White, meanwhile, is confined to the palace as a scullery maid. The Queen, fearing that Snow White's beauty will outshine her own, consults a Magic Mirror daily, asking it to name "the fairest one of all". The Mirror always responds in her favor, pleasing her.

One day, Snow White sees Jonathan, the cynical leader of a band of bandits, raiding the pantry. When he is sentenced to be tied to the gates, she frees him and gives him food. That same day, the Magic Mirror declares that Snow White is now the fairest. Enraged, the Queen orders the Royal Huntsman to take Snow White into the forest, kill her, and bring her heart back in a jeweled box. The Huntsman instead warns Snow White of the Queen's intentions. At his urging, Snow White flees deep into the forest.

Woodland creatures lead Snow White to a secluded cottage, where she falls asleep. Later that night, she awakes to find herself confronted by the cottage's owners, seven "magical beings"—Doc, Grumpy, Bashful, Sleepy, Sneezy, Happy, and Dopey—who work in a diamond mine. They take pity on her and agree to let her stay. Meanwhile, the Queen, having learned from the Magic Mirror that Snow White is still alive, imprisons the Huntsman before ordering a manhunt.

Snow White and Jonathan meet again in the forest and fend off the guards alongside the bandits. The two realize their feelings for each other before Jonathan departs to find the king, whom Snow White believes may still be alive. Jonathan is captured by the guards and imprisoned by the Queen, who deduces Snow White's whereabouts. Retreating to her secret chambers, she transforms into a peddler woman and creates a poisoned apple to curse Snow White with the Sleeping Death.

After Snow White's friends leave for work, the Queen finds their cottage and tricks Snow White into eating the apple by saying she is an ally of Jonathan's. She then reveals to her stepdaughter that she killed her father. Snow White falls into the "Sleeping Death," and the Queen retreats to her castle. Snow White's friends find her sleeping body upon returning. Having escaped, Jonathan arrives to discover her dead and mournfully kisses her. Snow White awakens and rallies her friends and Jonathan's bandits to overthrow the Evil Queen.

Snow White confronts her stepmother, who forcefully goads her to take the throne, placing a diamond dagger into her hand. Snow White refuses to hurt her, reminding the people what the kingdom used to be like under her parents' rule. Moved by the memories and the princess' kindness, the guards stand up to the Queen and join Snow White's friends, the bandits, the Huntsman, and the civilians. The Queen tries to attack Snow White, but the dwarfs and bandits defend her. The Magic Mirror tells the Queen that Snow White will always be fairer than her due to her kindness and justness. Snow White arrives to see the Queen destroying the Mirror, which is revealed to be the source of her powers. As a result, she turns into glass herself and disappears into a vortex while the Magic Mirror repairs itself.

Having been named the new queen at a grand celebration, Snow White rules the land justly.

Music

Template:Use mdy datesSongwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, who previously wrote the lyrics for two new songs for Disney's 2019 remake of Aladdin, wrote new songs alongside Jack Feldman as additional lyricist, including a new "I Want" song for Snow White, titled "Waiting on a Wish". They also wrote a new "villain song" for the Evil Queen, titled "All Is Fair", a new love duet for Snow White and Jonathan titled "A Hand Meets a Hand" (written in collaboration with Lizzy McAlpine), and a new opening ensemble number titled "Good Things Grow".<ref>"'Snow White' Trailer Teases New Song 'Waiting on a Wish'". December 3, 2024.</ref> The film features four of the eight songs from the original film by Frank Churchill and Larry Morey: "Heigh-Ho", "Whistle While You Work", "The Silly Song" and "Someday My Prince Will Come", the final of which is heard only instrumentally in the underscore due to the plot changes. In January 2025, it was revealed that Jeff Morrow had composed the score. Dave Metzger, a frequent collaborator on the music for films made by Walt Disney Animation Studios, served as orchestrator for the songs.<ref>"Jeff Morrow Scoring Marc Webb's 'Snow White'". Film Music Reporter. Archived from the original on January 10, 2025. Retrieved January 7, 2025.</ref> On March 4, 2025, it was announced that the soundtrack album would be released on March 14 by Walt Disney Records, with "Waiting on a Wish" released to the public that same day as the lead single.<ref>"Disney Hits Premieres New Original Song 'Waiting On A Wish'". SiriusXM.</ref><ref>"Disney Debuts New 'Snow White' Song 'Waiting On a Wish'". Complex.</ref> A deluxe edition of the album was released on March 20, 2025, featuring instrumental versions of the songs and Morrow's underscore.<ref>"Listen: Disney's SNOW WHITE Deluxe Edition Soundtrack Now Available". Archived from the original on March 22, 2025. Retrieved March 20, 2025.</ref>

Commercial performance

The film's soundtrack reached No. 11 on the Billboard Kid Albums chart and No. 19 on the Billboard Soundtracks chart.<ref>"Why Disney's New 'Snow White' Is Still a Win for the Animation World". Vancouver Animation School. Retrieved April 10, 2025.</ref> The song "Waiting on a Wish" by Rachel Zegler reached No. 74 on the UK Official Singles Sales chart.<ref>"Official Singles Sales Chart on 28/3/2025". Official Charts Company. Retrieved April 10, 2025.</ref>

Chart performance for Disney's Snow White (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

Chart (2025)	Peak position
UK Album Downloads (OCC)<ref>"Official Album Downloads Chart on 28/3/2025". Official Charts Company. March 28, 2025. Archived from the original on March 28, 2025. Retrieved March 28, 2025.</ref>	32
UK Compilation Albums (OCC)<ref>"Official Compilations Chart on 28/3/2025". Official Charts Company. March 28, 2025. Retrieved March 28, 2025.</ref>	29
UK Soundtrack Albums (OCC)<ref>"Official Soundtrack Albums Chart on 28/3/2025". Official Charts Company. March 28, 2025. Retrieved March 28, 2025.</ref>	18
US Kid Albums (Billboard)<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref>	11
US Top Soundtracks (Billboard)<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref>	19

Marketing

On September 9, 2022, during Disney's 2022 D23 Expo presentation, a 30-second first-look teaser as well as first-look images were previewed. There were quick flashes of several major settings, including Snow White's cottage in the woods, the intricately designed interior of the Queen's castle, and the moss-covered forest. There were also short glimpses of Gadot as the Evil Queen questioning her magic mirror, Zegler as Snow White, and Snow White's hand falling with the poisoned apple toppling along with her.<ref>Ryan, Danielle (September 9, 2022). "Snow White Footage Description: It's Gal Gadot Versus Rachel Zegler [D23]". /Film. Archived from the original on November 28, 2022. Retrieved September 9, 2022.</ref> Gadot said about her role that playing the Evil Queen was "very different than what [she] had done before. [She is] used to playing the other end of where the heart should be", but she found it very "delightful" to "get under her skin".<ref>Chapman, Wilson (September 9, 2022). "'Snow White' First Look: Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot Star". Variety. Archived from the original on September 10, 2022. Retrieved September 9, 2022.</ref><ref>Wagmeister, Elizabeth (November 5, 2021). "Gal Gadot Dishes on 'Snow White' Casting, Says 'Wonder Wonder 3' Script Is Underway". Variety. Archived from the original on November 5, 2021. Retrieved November 5, 2021.</ref> The title logo was also revealed.<ref>Grobar, Matt (September 9, 2022). "'Snow White': Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot Preview Live-Action Remake For Disney – D23". Deadline. Archived from the original on September 10, 2022. Retrieved September 9, 2022.</ref>

On October 27, 2023, Disney released the official first image of the film with Zegler as Snow White as well as Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy.<ref name="Grobar-2023a">Grobar, Matt (October 27, 2023). "'Snow White' First Look Photo Featuring Rachel Zegler Unveiled By Disney". Deadline. Archived from the original on October 27, 2023. Retrieved October 27, 2023.</ref><ref name="The Walt Disney Company-2023">"Disney Showcases Magical Look at 'Snow White'". The Walt Disney Company. October 27, 2023. Archived from the original on October 27, 2023. Retrieved October 27, 2023.</ref> Zegler confirmed that there is a lot of CGI, which made her feel "nervous".<ref name="Grobar-2023b2">Grobar, Matt (December 7, 2023). "Rachel Zegler on Snow White CGI Dwarves: Nervous, Intense and Fun". Variety. Archived from the original on December 7, 2023. Retrieved December 7, 2023.</ref> Footage of Gadot as the Evil Queen was shown at the 2024 CinemaCon.<ref>Truitt, Brian (April 11, 2024). "Live from CinemaCon: Deadpool gets a popcorn bucket, 'Captain America' debuts first look". USA Today. Archived from the original on April 12, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024. That's followed by a sizzle reel of past and future movies, including a look at Gal Gadot's Evil Queen in upcoming live-action "Snow White" – so evil! – and Harrison Ford's President "Thunderbolt" Ross in Marvel's "Captain America: Brave New World."</ref> Disney presented new footage and a behind-the-scenes look during the 2024 CineEurope.<ref>Alex Ritman (June 19, 2024). "Disney Unveils Terrifying New 'Alien: Romulus' Footage, Teases Marvel's 'Thunderbolts,' Gives 'Deadpool & Wolverine' Alcohol-Endorsed Boost at CineEurope". Variety. Archived from the original on June 20, 2024. Retrieved June 20, 2024.</ref><ref>Nancy Tartaglione (June 19, 2024). "Disney Fêtes 'Inside Out 2', Slays With 'Deadpool' and 'Alien: Romulus' Footage, Shows Off New Look At 'Moana 2' – CineEurope". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on June 19, 2024. Retrieved June 20, 2024.</ref> The 2024 D23 Expo presented a sneak preview with a clip of the musical number "Whistle While You Work" along with the first trailer.<ref>Anthony D'Alessandro (August 9, 2024). "'Snow White' First Footage Shows Rachel Zegler Crooning "Whistle While You Work"; Teaser Trailer Also Revealed At D23". Deadline Hollywood. Archived from the original on August 14, 2024. Retrieved August 31, 2024.</ref>

The teaser trailer for Snow White was released on YouTube in August 2024 and became the most disliked teaser for a film trailer on the platform, garnering an estimated nearly one million dislikes and over 82,000 likes within three weeks, according to available data from browser extensions that display an approximation of YouTube dislikes.<ref>"Disney's 'Snow White' trailer massive backlash and dislikes". NME. August 16, 2024. Archived from the original on September 19, 2024. Retrieved August 25, 2024.</ref><ref>Fink, Richard (August 31, 2024). "Rachel Zegler's Snow White Trailer Reaches Unwanted Milestone on YouTube". MovieWeb. Archived from the original on September 18, 2024. Retrieved September 13, 2024.</ref>

The first full trailer debuted at D23 Brazil in November 2024 and was attached to select theatrical screenings of Universal Pictures's Wicked before eventually being released onto YouTube on December 3, 2024.<ref>"'Snow White' Trailer Leaks Online, in Better Quality — Still No Official Release from Disney". November 25, 2024.</ref><ref>Petski, Denise (December 3, 2024). "'Snow White' Trailer Features Gal Gadot's Evil Queen, Rachel Zegler, The Seven Dwarfs & More". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved December 3, 2024.</ref> Stuart Heritage of The Guardian criticized the visual effects for the animals and dwarves. He said the dwarves "look like someone has snuck into Disneyland, grabbed the statues from Snow White's Enchanted Wish and wrapped them in human flesh, as a serial killer would with a gift for their mother" and "like someone has shaved the Sonic the Hedgehog from that first Sonic the Hedgehog trailer that everyone hated."<ref>Heritage, Stuart (December 4, 2024). "Wish it away: will the live-action Snow White be a new low for Disney?". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved December 7, 2024.</ref> Polygon's Petrana Radulovic wrote, "The new Snow White looks like it's putting in more of a plot, likely one where our plucky heroine will stand up to her despotic tyrant of a stepmother in a YA dystopian plotline out of 2014. Maybe it'll work, storywise! Visually, though, everything seems like it's working on the same budget as ABC Family's Once Upon a Time."<ref>Radulovic, Petrana (December 3, 2024). "Oh boy, the new Snow White trailer…". Polygon. Retrieved December 7, 2024.</ref> An international trailer featuring Snow White's origins was released on December 19, 2024.<ref>Sharpe, Josh (December 19, 2024). "Video: Rachel Zegler Sings in New SNOW WHITE Trailer". Broadway World. Retrieved December 19, 2024.</ref> A featurette showing a behind-the-scenes look and how it would honor the legacy of the 1937 film was released on February 20, 2025. The press tour began in Tokyo on March 5, 2025, with Zegler joining her Japanese dub counterpart Sakura Kiryu to perform "Waiting on a Wish" live for the first time.<ref>Becker, Amy. Rachel Zegler performs first single from 'Disney's Snow White' called 'Waiting on a Wish' in Tokyo KGO-TV, March 5, 2025</ref> On March 10, 2025, the day tickets for the film went on sale, Disney released new posters, a TV spot, and a film clip.<ref>Schreur, Brandon (March 10, 2025). "Snow White: New Clips & Posters Released as Tickets for Live-Action Remake Are Now on Sale". Coming Soon. Retrieved March 10, 2025.</ref> Zegler later appeared on the March 17, 2025 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to give the first live television performance of "Waiting on a Wish".

At least $70 million was spent on marketing, which, combined with the main production budget, gave Disney a total investment of $350 million for the film.<ref>Reid, Caroline (November 14, 2024). "Disney Reveals 'Snow White' Remake Is Set To Blow Its Budget". Forbes. Archived from the original on March 1, 2025. Retrieved November 14, 2024.</ref>

Release

During the 2022 D23 Expo Presentation, it was announced that Snow White would be released in 2024.<ref>Freitag, Lee (September 10, 2022). "Disney's Live-Action Snow White's Release Window Confirmed". CBR. Archived from the original on September 10, 2022. Retrieved September 10, 2022.CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)</ref> On September 15, 2022, the film was announced to have a release date of March 22, 2024.<ref>Rubin, Rebecca (September 15, 2022). "Disney Removes 'Star Wars' Spinoff 'Rogue Squadron' From Release Calendar, Sets Dates for 'Snow White,' 'Inside Out 2' and 'Lion King' Sequel". Variety. Archived from the original on September 15, 2022. Retrieved September 15, 2022.</ref> However, in October 2023, it was delayed a year to March 21, 2025, with the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike cited as the rationale for the delay.<ref name="McClintock-2023">Template:Cite magazine</ref> The theatrical release will also include engagements in IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 4DX, ScreenX and D-Box.<ref>"Disney's Snow White (2025) Movie Tickets & Showtimes Near You". December 3, 2024.</ref><ref>"D-BOX Catalogue".</ref>

The European premiere took place on March 12, 2025, at Spain's Alcázar of Segovia, which inspired the castle in the original film, to give the film a more elaborate showing at a "fairytale" venue.<ref>Hines, Dominique (March 6, 2025). "Disney stuns fans as it ditches UK Snow White premiere for launch at Spanish castle amid controversy". The Standard. Retrieved March 8, 2025.</ref><ref name="THR-Troubles">James Hibberd; Pamela McClintock (March 12, 2025). "Inside Disney's 'Snow White' Troubles: "They Need to Get This Over With"". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved March 12, 2025.</ref> A Hollywood premiere without regular red-carpet press took place at the El Capitan Theatre on March 15, 2025, due to the controversies surrounding Zegler and Gadot's political views.<ref name="THR-Troubles" /><ref>Malkin, Marc (March 11, 2025). "Disney Scales Back 'Snow White' Hollywood Premiere Amid Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot Controversies". Variety. Archived from the original on March 11, 2025. Retrieved March 11, 2025.</ref> In Gadot's honor, the film's first premiere in Israel took place on March 19, 2025, at the Planet Cinema in Rishon LeZion, with prominent figures from Israel attending.<ref>Finkelstein, Ron (March 19, 2025). "מי הכי יפה בעיר? מלכות היופי במחווה מרגשת לגל גדות" [Who is the most beautiful in town? Beauty queens in moving tribute to Gal Gadot]. 13 channel (in עברית). Archived from the original on March 19, 2025. Retrieved April 1, 2025.</ref>

Reception

Box office

Template:As of, Snow White has grossed $79.8Template:Nbspmillion in the United States and Canada, and $91.3Template:Nbspmillion in other territories for a worldwide total of $171.1Template:Nbspmillion. The Hollywood Reporter surmised that the film would need to gross $500Template:Nbspmillion to reach its "box office safety net".<ref name="THR March 24">McClintock, Pamela (March 24, 2025). "Box Office: How 'Snow White' Landed in Potential Bomb Territory". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 24, 2025. Retrieved March 24, 2025.</ref>

In the United States and Canada, Snow White was released alongside The Alto Knights and Ash, and was projected to gross $45–55Template:Nbspmillion from 4,200 theaters in its opening weekend.<ref name="BO-preview">D'Alessandro, Anthony (February 7, 2025). "'Snow White' Hopes To Avoid Poison Apples At Box Office With $100M+ Global Opening – Preview". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved March 19, 2025.</ref><ref name="BO-preview2">Template:Cite magazine</ref> It was initially projected to gross $63–70Template:Nbspmillion, with analysts comparing this projection to the $69.4Template:Nbspmillion opening of Maleficent (2014) and believing that the film would overcome its controversies and fare well financially, given there being no strong competition against it on opening weekend, but in late February, projections were lowered.<ref>McClintock, Pamela (February 27, 2025). "Rachel Zegler's 'Snow White' Tracking for $53M Box Office Opening". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved March 7, 2025.</ref> The film made $16Template:Nbspmillion on its first day, including an estimated $3.5Template:Nbspmillion in Thursday previews.<ref name="opening">D'Alessandro, Anthony (March 22, 2025). "Ho-Hum, Ho-Hum: 'Snow White' Opens To $43M — What Poisoned This Princess At The Box Office – Sunday AM Box Office Update". Deadline. Archived from the original on March 23, 2025. Retrieved March 23, 2025.</ref> It went on to debut to $42.2Template:Nbspmillion, slightly below projections but still managing to top the box office due to little competition;<ref>"Domestic 2025 Weekend 12". Box Office Mojo. Archived from the original on March 23, 2025. Retrieved March 25, 2025.</ref> the low opening was attributed by The Hollywood Reporter to "so-so audience scores and underwhelming reviews".<ref>McClintock, Pamela (March 23, 2025). "Box Office: 'Snow White' Limps to Alarming $43M Domestic Opening, $87.3M Globally". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 23, 2025. Retrieved March 23, 2025.</ref> Business Insider reported that the film's behind-the-scenes controversies likely had little impact on its box-office performance,<ref name=":1">Faris, James (March 25, 2025). "Disney's 'Snow White' flop is deeper than anti-woke backlash, box office analysts say". Business Insider.</ref> while Deadline reported that the film's financial performance could primarily be attributed to its marketing, the source material failing to resonate with younger audiences, and negative buzz surrounding the film's visuals.<ref name="opening" /> In its second weekend, the film made $14.3 million (dropping 66%), finishing second behind newcomer A Working Man,<ref>D'Alessandro, Anthony (March 30, 2025). "Jason Statham's 'Working Man' With $15M+ Opening Puts 'Snow White' To Sleep & Sends Jenna Ortega's 'Unicorn' Out To Pasture – Sunday Box Office Update". Deadline. Retrieved March 30, 2025.</ref><ref>"Domestic 2025 Weekend 13". Box Office Mojo. Archived from the original on March 31, 2025. Retrieved April 4, 2025.</ref> and then $6.1 million in its third weekend, falling to fourth.<ref>D'Alessandro, Anthony (April 6, 2025). "'A Minecraft Movie' At $157M A Record Opening For Videogame Pic, Toppling 'Super Mario Bros'; Warner Bros Brings The Box Office Back Alive – Update". Deadline. Archived from the original on April 4, 2025. Retrieved April 6, 2025.</ref>

Critical response

The film received mixed reviews.<ref>Holleran, Andrew (April 6, 2025). "Met Gala Reportedly Makes Decision On 'Snow White' Actress Rachel Zegler". Yahoo Entertainment. Retrieved April 7, 2025.</ref> On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 40% of 250 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5.1/10. The website's consensus reads: "Snow White is hardly a grumpy time at the movies thanks to Rachel Zegler's luminous star turn, but its bashful treatment of the source material along with some dopey stylistic choices won't make everyone happy, either."<ref>"Snow White". Rotten Tomatoes. Fandango Media. Retrieved April 12, 2025</ref> Rotten Tomatoes also reported that critics thought Zegler was "one huge highlight" of the film, but "Gadot's reception is mixed [...] as are the CGI Dwarfs."<ref>"Disney's Snow White First Reviews: Rachel Zegler Radiates Charisma in a New Take on a Classic Story". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved April 12, 2025.</ref> Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned the film a score of 50 out of 100, based on 51 critics, indicating "mixed or average" reviews.<ref>"Snow White". Metacritic. Fandom, Inc. Retrieved March 26, 2025</ref> Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of "B+" on an A+ to F scale, while those surveyed by PostTrak gave it an average rating of three out of five stars, with 43% saying they would definitely recommend it.<ref name="opening" /> The Hollywood Reporter noted that Disney's previous theatrical remakes earned CinemaScores around the "A" range.<ref name="THR March 24" /> The BBC reported that British film critics have mostly panned the film, while US critics were more positive.<ref>"Snow White film is both 'bad' and 'captivating' say critics". BBC News. March 20, 2025. Archived from the original on March 20, 2025. Retrieved March 20, 2025.</ref>

Katcy Stephan of Variety lauded Zegler's performance, praising her as a "shining supernova" and her character as having "newfound depth through her fervent desire to become the leader her father believed she could be."<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref> Siddhant Adlakha of IGN called the film "the best Disney live-action remake in a decade" and said that it "adapts the broad strokes of the original, while fleshing out its themes."<ref>Adlakha, Siddhant (March 19, 2025). "Snow White Review". IGN. Archived from the original on March 19, 2025. Retrieved March 19, 2025.</ref> Brian Truitt of USA Today wrote that it "finds modern relevance amid the old material."<ref>Truitt, Brian. "'Snow White' review: Rachel Zegler enchants in Disney's resonant remake". USA TODAY.</ref> Patrick Gomez of Entertainment Weekly described the film saying: "Disney's best live-action remake is the fairest of them all."<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref>

Nicholas Barber of the BBC wrote, "The story is cluttered, the tone is muddled, and the pacing is off. Again, that doesn't make the film a disaster. In some ways, the identity crisis is what makes it worth seeing."<ref>"Film review: Disney's Snow White has a major 'identity crisis'". www.bbc.com. March 19, 2025.</ref> Witney Seibold of /Film wrote, "It's hollow, but unlike some more recent remakes, it seems to have thoughts in its head."<ref>Seibold, Witney (March 19, 2025). "Snow White Review: The Latest Disney Remake Is Better Than Expected But Still Pretty Dopey". SlashFilm.</ref> David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter wrote of the premise, "If that sounds like the standard female-empowerment template that's almost obligatory in contemporary fairy-tale retreads, it more or less is. But the incandescent Zegler sells it with conviction and heart."<ref>Rooney, David (March 19, 2025). "'Snow White' Review: Rachel Zegler Shines and Gal Gadot Glowers in Disney's Mostly Captivating Live-Action Update." The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved March 19, 2025.</ref> Daniel Bayer of AwardsWatch wrote, "[Marc] Webb gets the job done with minimal muss and fuss, and whenever Zegler is onscreen, the film manages to conjure up some of that good old Disney magic."<ref>"AwardsWatch - 'Snow White' Review: Rachel Zegler IS the Fairest of Them All in Marc Webb's Fairytale Remake [C+]". March 19, 2025.</ref> Dan Rubins of Slant called it "a fairly paint-by-numbers exercise in updating a quintessential but unquestionably quaint property for modern consumption."<ref>Rubins, Dan (March 19, 2025). "'Snow White' Review: A Less Heigh-Ho Than Ho-Hum Remake of a Disney Classic." Slant Magazine. Retrieved March 20, 2025.</ref> Amy Nicholson of the Los Angeles Times wrote that the film is "a fascinating case study in today's impossible contradictions—a magic mirror reflecting the tensions of the current times."<ref>Nicholson, Amy (March 19, 2025). "Review: An uncertain 'Snow White' holds a magic mirror up to polarized times". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on March 19, 2025. Retrieved March 19, 2025.</ref> Nell Minow of RogerEbert.com gave the film two-and-a-half stars out of four and wrote, "Some parts of the film work better than others, but none of it has the sweetness and imagination of the animated feature. This Snow White is not the fairest of them all. It's just, well, fair."<ref>"Snow White movie review & film summary (2025) | Roger Ebert". www.rogerebert.com.</ref>

Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian called it "exhaustingly awful", with "tiresome pseudo-progressive additions", and criticized Zegler and Gadot's roles as "the dullest performances of their lives".<ref>Bradshaw, Peter (March 19, 2025). "Snow White review – Disney's exhaustingly awful reboot axes the prince and makes the dwarves mo-cap". The Guardian.</ref> Johnny Oleksinski of the New York Post wrote, "The timeless classic, a groundbreaking achievement for animation, has been turned into another pointless and awkward live-action automaton that vanishes from your mind the second it's over."<ref>Oleksinski, Johnny (March 19, 2025). "'Snow White' review: One more boring, mediocre live-action Disney retread". Archived from the original on March 19, 2025. Retrieved March 19, 2025.</ref> Tyler Taing of DiscussingFilm wrote, "Aside from Rachel Zegler's powerhouse performance, there is little else to enjoy from this clumsy, poorly conceived, and cynical live-action Disney remake. Even Gal Gadot's hilariously bad line reads are not worth the trip to the theater."<ref>"'Snow White' Review - Rachel Zegler Shines in Disney's Uninspired Live-Action Remake". March 19, 2025.</ref> Rodrigo Perez of The Playlist wrote, "While interjecting its social commentary, Snow White otherwise tackles much of the same ideas—the notions of true love, the power of friendship, and the triumph of good over evil—but it's all put together in a very familiar and garish package."<ref>Perez, Rodrigo (March 19, 2025). "'Snow White' Review: Oppressed Princess Reclaims Kingdom From Occupying Tyrannical Queen In Otherwise Boring, Loud Spectacle".</ref> David Fear of Rolling Stone said it "may not be the worst live-action adaptation of an animated touchstone, though it's a strong contender for its blandest."<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref>

Controversies

Pre-release

Casting of Snow White

The casting of Zegler, an actress of Latina descent, as Snow White drew criticism, as the character is described in the original material as having skin "as white as snow".<ref>Rosenbloom, Alli (July 19, 2023). "Rachel Zegler wants to be left out of 'nonsensical discourse' related to her 'Snow White' casting". CNN. Archived from the original on August 20, 2023. Retrieved August 20, 2023.</ref><ref>Brockington, Ariana (July 18, 2023). "Rachel Zegler refers to comments over her casting in 'Snow White' as 'nonsensical discourse'". NBC News. Archived from the original on December 30, 2023. Retrieved December 30, 2023.</ref> Zegler responded to the comments in January 2022, saying that Snow White is popular in Spanish-speaking countries and having a Latina in such a role is rare, so she was proud to be cast.<ref>Sharf, Zack (January 31, 2022). "Rachel Zegler on 'Snow White' Casting Backlash: 'People Were Angry'". Variety. Archived from the original on January 31, 2022. Retrieved January 31, 2022.</ref> In August 2023, it was revealed that another Latina actress, Renata Vaca, was one of two finalists in the casting process for the role of Snow White. Vaca stated that the casting call for the role of Snow White was "open to all ethnic groups" and that the first phase of auditioning consisted of singing a Disney Princess song.<ref>Ceja, Gabriela (August 31, 2023). "La actriz mexicana que casi le quita el papel de Blancanieves a Rachel Zegler" [The Mexican actress who almost took the role of Snow White from Rachel Zegler]. Cosmopolitan. Archived from the original on September 3, 2023. Retrieved September 2, 2023.</ref> In October 2024, Zegler revealed that the character would be given the name Snow White after she and her parents survived a snowstorm to remind her of her resilience, which Zegler claimed was a plotline used in another version of the fairy tale.<ref name="Zegler-Variety-2024">Hailu, Selome; Stephan, Katcy (October 2, 2024). "Rachel Zegler on Reinventing Snow White and Juliet and Facing Off Against Toxic Disney Fans: 'I've Watched Women Get Torn Down My Whole Life'". Variety. Archived from the original on October 2, 2024. Retrieved October 2, 2024.</ref>

Reimagining of the Seven Dwarfs

In January 2022, actor Peter Dinklage, who has a form of dwarfism and has played dwarfish characters in his career, commented on the upcoming live-action Snow White remake, dismissing it as a "backward story".<ref>Sharf, Zack (January 24, 2022). "Peter Dinklage Blasts Disney's 'Snow White' Remake: 'Fucking Backwards'". Variety. Archived from the original on January 24, 2022. Retrieved January 24, 2022.</ref> In response to Dinklage's comments, Disney stated that "to avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the original animated film, we are taking a different approach with these seven characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community".<ref>Parker, Ryan (January 25, 2022). "Peter Dinklage: Disney Responds to Snow White Criticism (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on January 25, 2022. Retrieved January 25, 2022.</ref><ref>Taylor, Drew (January 25, 2022). "Disney Assures Peter Dinklage on 'Snow White' Reboot: 'We Are Taking a Different Approach' on Dwarf Characters". The Wrap. Archived from the original on January 25, 2022. Retrieved January 25, 2022.</ref> Numerous other actors with dwarfism like Dylan "Hornswoggle" Postl, Jeff Brooks, and Katrina Kemp responded negatively to Dinklage's comments, feeling he was unduly speaking on their behalf and costing them roles.<ref>Dick, Jeremy (January 31, 2022). "Peter Dinklage's Snow White Criticism Draws Ire from Actors with Dwarfism". MovieWeb. Archived from the original on December 29, 2022. Retrieved January 31, 2022.</ref>

In July 2023, footage of the production from Berkshire revealed that the depiction of the Seven Dwarfs had been reimagined, consisting of one actor with dwarfism along with six other non-dwarf actors of varying ethnicity, six males and one female portraying the associated set of seven individuals, who were originally all portrayed as supernatural beings from German folklore, not actual human beings.<ref name="Rosen-2023">Rosen, Evan (July 15, 2023). "Critics slam 'wokeness' as live-action 'Snow White' appears to ditch the 7 Dwarfs". New York Daily News. Archived from the original on August 12, 2024. Retrieved August 12, 2024.</ref> After initially denying reports that these images depicted the actual film production, Disney later confirmed that they did indeed depict the production, with stand-in actors substituting for the leads (the already confirmed actor Martin Klebba not appearing in said footage).<ref>Keates, Emma (July 14, 2023). "Disney now says those Snow White photos are simply 'not official' [Updated]". The A.V. Club. Archived from the original on July 17, 2023. Retrieved July 17, 2023.</ref><ref name="Walsh-2023">Template:Cite magazine</ref> The decision to reimagine the characters as such was criticised by social media sources as being overly politically correct,<ref name="Rosen-2023" /><ref name="Walsh-2023" /> as well as potentially taking away acting opportunities from the dwarfism community.<ref>Noyen, Maria (July 15, 2023). "Disney's 'Snow White' remake appears to ditch the seven dwarfs, set photos suggest, sparking online controversy". Insider. Archived from the original on August 21, 2023. Retrieved July 17, 2023.</ref>

Jackass cast member Jason "Wee Man" Acuña criticized Disney for not casting dwarf actors and expressed disappointment about the changes.<ref>"WEE MAN 'SNOW WHITE' MOVIE MAKING BIG MISTAKE... Taking Jobs From Us!!!". TMZ. July 21, 2023. Archived from the original on July 28, 2023. Retrieved July 28, 2023.</ref> Acuña said "You're replacing jobs that people could have as little people. It's for dwarfs. Why are you hiring 'Snow White and the seven average people'?"<ref>Noyen, Maria (August 4, 2023). "'Jackass' star Wee Man hits out at the 'interesting' decision to cast Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa in 'Wonka'". Insider. Archived from the original on April 21, 2024. Retrieved August 25, 2023.</ref> Dylan Postl also disagreed with Dinklage's view, echoed Acuña's sentiments, and defended the portrayal of the dwarf characters in the animated film.<ref>"Peter Dinklage's Snow White Criticism Draws Ire from Actors with Dwarfism". MovieWeb. January 31, 2022. Archived from the original on December 29, 2022. Retrieved January 31, 2022.</ref><ref>Seokwang, Lesego. "Dwarf actors slam Peter Dinklage for saying Snow White should ditch the dwarfs". You. Archived from the original on February 10, 2022. Retrieved February 24, 2022.</ref> In October 2023, coinciding with an announcement of the delay, Disney unveiled a first-look image, which included the Seven Dwarfs, all of which are CGI characters made to look similar to their appearances in the 1937 film.

The seven characters of Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy are never referred to as "dwarfs" in the dialogue of the film, nor in any Disney official promotional material.

Zegler's criticism of the 1937 film

Zegler attracted criticism over statements expressing disapproval with aspects of the original film, including the Prince and Snow White's characterization.<ref name="THRinsulting">Hibberd, James (August 18, 2023). "'Snow White' Director's Son Criticizes "Insulting" Disney Remake Starring Rachel Zegler". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on August 19, 2023. Retrieved August 20, 2023.</ref><ref>Power, Ed (August 14, 2023). "Disney's failing remake strategy is trashing its legacy". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on August 16, 2023. Retrieved August 16, 2023.</ref> In 2022, Zegler criticized "jokes" about the new Snow White character being "PC", saying that the cartoon was old and needed a refresh to give the character "a function beyond 'Someday My Prince Will Come.<ref>White, Abbey (October 16, 2022). "Rachel Zegler on Snow White Being "PC," Stressful West Side Story Press". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on December 7, 2022. Retrieved October 16, 2022.</ref> She also spoke about story changes at the 2022 D23 Expo:

“The original cartoon came out in 1937 and very evidently so. There's a big focus on her love story with a guy who literally stalks her. Weird! Weird. So we didn't do that this time. We have a different approach to what I'm sure a lot of people will assume is a love story just because we cast a guy in the movie, Andrew Burnap, great dude. [...] But it's really not about her love story at all, which is really, really wonderful. [...] All of Andrew's scenes could get cut, who knows? It's Hollywood, baby!”<ref>Kaloi, Stephanie (August 13, 2023). "Snow White Star Rachel Zegler Angers Conservatives and Disney Fans, Insists the Movie's Prince 'Stalks' Her Character". TheWrap. Archived from the original on September 19, 2024. Retrieved August 12, 2024.</ref>

In response to her comments, many rebuked her for making Snow White "more feminist",<ref>Issa, Natalie (August 15, 2023). "The Rachel Zegler, Disney "Snow White" remake controversy explained". Deseret News. Archived from the original on August 16, 2023. Retrieved August 16, 2023.</ref> while others criticized her for misinterpreting feminism, with accusations of promoting the girlboss archetype or maligning women that seek traditional feminine roles or are uninterested in power or leadership. Ashten Stein, a brand strategist, felt that Zegler's statements made it appear that she had not received media training for marketing.<ref>"Rachel Zegler stirs viral backlash after comments resurface about 'Snow White' remake". NBC News. August 15, 2023. Archived from the original on August 16, 2023. Retrieved August 16, 2023.</ref><ref>"Disney's Snow White: Has the fairy tale already gone sour?". BBC News. August 14, 2023. Archived from the original on August 16, 2023. Retrieved August 16, 2023.</ref> Ultimately, critics inferred and claimed that Zegler disliked the original film.<ref name="THRinsulting" /><ref name="USAsad">Marrow, Brendan (October 2, 2024). "Rachel Zegler addresses backlash to controversial 'Snow White' comments: 'It made me sad'". USA Today. Retrieved March 11, 2025.</ref> David Hand, whose father of the same name co-directed the original animated film, criticized the remake, describing it as "insulting" and suggesting that his father and Walt Disney would be "turning in their graves".<ref>Susie Coen (August 18, 2023). "My dad and Walt Disney would be turning in their graves over woke Snow White remake". The Telegraph. Archived from the original on August 28, 2023. Retrieved August 28, 2023.</ref> This controversy prompted conservative media organization The Daily Wire to announce its own live-action adaptation of the original fairy tale, titled Snow White and the Evil Queen, which was originally to star actress and Daily Wire commentator Brett Cooper as Snow White for a release in 2025 in an effort to compete with Disney's version.<ref>Wiseman, Andreas (October 16, 2023). "Daily Wire Makes Live-Action Snow White Starring YouTuber Brett Cooper". Deadline. Archived from the original on October 21, 2023. Retrieved October 16, 2023.</ref> However, following Cooper's departure from The Daily Wire in December 2024, no updates on the production of this version have been given.<ref>Cockburn (December 11, 2024). "Brett Cooper departs Daily Wire following days of speculation". The Spectator World. Archived from the original on December 11, 2024. Retrieved March 20, 2025.</ref>

Zegler addressed the backlash to her comments in a Variety interview in October 2024, saying the film would still involve a love story, and that "it made me sad that it was taken in such a way [...] It can be very upsetting when things get taken out of context or jokes don't land".<ref name="USAsad" /><ref>Hailu, Selome; Stephan, Katcy (October 2, 2024). "Rachel Zegler on Reinventing Snow White and Juliet and Facing Off Against Toxic Disney Fans: 'I've Watched Women Get Torn Down My Whole Life'". Variety. Penske Media Corporation. Archived from the original on October 2, 2024. Retrieved March 11, 2025.</ref>

Political views

In August 2024, after the teaser trailer for Snow White premiered, BDS and the PACBI called for a boycott of the film due to Gadot's Israeli military service and pro-Israel stance.<ref>"BDS calls for boycott of Disney's 'Snow White' starring Israeli Gal Gadot amid growing controversy". The Express Tribune. August 23, 2024. Retrieved October 4, 2024.</ref><ref>Greyman-Kennard, Danielle (December 28, 2024). "BDS vs. Snow White and Captain America: PCACBI demands boycott of Disney, Marvel". The Jerusalem Post. Archived from the original on March 29, 2025. Retrieved April 3, 2025.</ref> The boycott calls grew as Gadot and Zegler openly took opposing sides on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Gadot supporting Israel and Zegler supporting Palestine.<ref name="Fink-20242">Fink, Rachel (August 15, 2024). "Disney's 'Snow White' Remake Sparks Boycott Calls Over Gal Gadot's Casting and Co-star's pro-Palestinian Stance". Haaretz. Archived from the original on September 19, 2024. Retrieved September 19, 2024.</ref><ref name="Berger-20242">Berger, Eric (August 25, 2024). "Bad apple? How Disney's Snow White remake turned sour". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Archived from the original on September 19, 2024. Retrieved September 19, 2024.</ref> Before the film's release, Gadot received death threats, attributed to her stance, which led Disney to provide additional security for her.<ref name=":2">Siegel, Tatiana (March 25, 2025). "Inside Disney's 'Snow White' Fiasco: Death Threats, Beefed-Up Security and a Social Media Guru for Rachel Zegler". Variety. Archived from the original on March 26, 2025. Retrieved March 27, 2025.</ref><ref>McTaggart, India (March 26, 2025). "Disney 'boosted Gal Gadot's security' after Snow White co-star's Gaza tweet". The Telegraph. ISSN 0307-1235. Retrieved March 27, 2025.</ref> Despite the controversies, Gadot and Zegler had a positive relationship with each other during the film's production.<ref name=":2" />

Another call to boycott was made by Republican supporters in the aftermath of the 2024 United States presidential election, as Zegler posted "Fuck Donald Trump" and attacked those who voted to re-elect him, saying, "May Trump supporters and Trump voters and Trump himself never know peace." Zegler later issued a public apology, saying she did not intend any harm with her message.<ref>Patten, Dominic (November 15, 2024). "Rachel Zegler Apologizes After 'Snow White' Star & Disney Damned By Megyn Kelly & Ruthless Podcast Hosts Over "F*ck Donald Trump" Post". Deadline Hollywood.</ref><ref>Hibberd, James (November 15, 2024). "Disney's 'Snow White' Rachel Zegler Apologizes for Trump Re-Election Reaction". The Hollywood Reporter.</ref><ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref>

Post-release

Several Arab organizations and individuals opposed to Israeli policies launched a digital campaign against the film, particularly targeting Gadot due to her military service. Groups from Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Tunisia, UAE, and Egypt, called for a regional boycott, arguing that screening the film supports the Israeli occupation and the IDF's treatment of Palestinians.<ref>Sources:

• Ari, Lior Ben (March 23, 2025). "Arab groups call to boycott Disney's 'Snow White' over Gadot's IDF ties". Ynetnews. Archived from the original on March 23, 2025. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
• "בעולם הערבי קוראים להחרים את "שלגיה": "גל גדות מייצגת את הכיבוש" - וואלה תרבות" [Arab world calls for boycott of "Snow White": "Gal Gadot represents the occupation"]. וואלה (in עברית). March 23, 2025. Archived from the original on March 24, 2025. Retrieved March 23, 2025.
• Tusing, David. "UAE Disney fans say they are boycotting Snow White because of Gal Gadot". The National. Archived from the original on March 29, 2025. Retrieved March 27, 2025.</ref> This stance has been viewed by some as antisemitic.<ref>Source:

• Chiat, Inbal (August 13, 2024). "Gal Gadot faces antisemitic campaign after 'Snow White' trailer". The Washington Times. Archived from the original on March 31, 2025. Retrieved March 27, 2025.
• "Anti-Israel Arab groups launch boycott against 'Snow White' because of Israeli star Gal Gadot". All Israel News. March 24, 2025. Archived from the original on March 25, 2025. Retrieved March 27, 2025.
• Simons, Jake Wallis (March 15, 2025). "Snow White has been hijacked by legions of unemployed dimwits". The Telegraph. ISSN 0307-1235. Archived from the original on March 28, 2025. Retrieved March 27, 2025.</ref>

Producer Marc Platt's son Jonah Platt attributed Snow WhiteTemplate:'s underperformance in its opening week partly to Zegler's social media post supporting Palestine.<ref>Hibberd, James (March 26, 2025). "'Snow White' Producer's Son Slams "Immature" Rachel Zegler: "Clearly Hurt the Film"". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on March 28, 2025. Retrieved April 2, 2025.</ref><ref>Nolfi, Joey (March 27, 2025). "'Snow White' producer's son blames Rachel Zegler for poor box office". EW.com. Archived from the original on March 27, 2025. Retrieved April 2, 2025.</ref> Box-office analysts largely disagreed with the view that the film's underperformance could be attributed to political controversies and instead attributed it to the film's failure to resonate with critics and audiences. Some actors and musicians have defended Zegler's comments.<ref>Adekaiyero, Ayomikun. "Celebrities are rallying behind 'Snow White' actor Rachel Zegler amid backlash over the movie. Here's what to know". Business Insider. Retrieved April 1, 2025.</ref>

IMDb ratings

By April 2025, over 91% of reviews of Snow White on IMDb were one star, which led to the site flagging the film with a notice of unusual activity due to concerns of review bombing.<ref>Stolworthy, Jacob (March 31, 2025). "Review trolls tank new Snow White film after Rachel Zegler 'smear campaign'". The Independent. Retrieved April 12, 2025.</ref>

Impact

Production on Disney's live-action remake of Tangled was suspended indefinitely in April 2025, in the wake of the critical and financial underperformance of Snow White. It has not yet been determined whether or not Tangled will resume production at some future date, or undergo any changes to its crew or script.<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref><ref>Kit, Borys (April 3, 2025). "Disney's 'Tangled' Live-Action Movie Hits the Pause Button (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on April 3, 2025. Retrieved April 4, 2025.</ref>

Videos

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References

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