Staff Reports
Disney’s live-action Snow White remake has stumbled into theaters with a lackluster $43 million opening weekend, marking one of the weakest starts for a Disney princess film in recent memory. With a production budget exceeding $270 million, the film faces an uphill battle to recoup its costs, especially amid mounting controversies surrounding its casting choices, narrative changes, and political undertones. What was intended to be a fresh retelling of the 1937 animated classic has instead become a cautionary tale about the risks of overhauling beloved stories to fit modern sensibilities.
The film’s departure from the original storyline has alienated many fans. Disney eliminated Prince Charming, deeming his romantic rescue problematic, and transformed Snow White into a rebellious leader fighting against the Evil Queen rather than seeking love. While these changes were intended to empower the character, critics argue they strip away the timeless charm that made the original iconic. The decision to replace the classic song “Someday My Prince Will Come” with “Waiting on a Wish” further highlights Disney’s attempt to modernize the story, but at the expense of its nostalgic appeal.
Adding fuel to the fire is Disney’s controversial use of CGI for the Seven Dwarfs, a choice aimed at avoiding stereotypes but which has backfired spectacularly. The dwarfs’ awkwardly animated appearances have drawn comparisons to garden gnomes and characters trapped in the uncanny valley, leaving audiences unimpressed. This decision followed criticism from actor Peter Dinklage, who accused Disney of hypocrisy for updating certain elements while retaining others he deemed outdated. Instead of addressing these concerns meaningfully, Disney’s approach has sparked confusion and frustration among viewers.
The controversies don’t end there. Rachel Zegler, who plays Snow White, has faced backlash for her outspoken political views, including anti-Trump remarks and support for Palestine. Her comments have overshadowed her performance and led to calls for boycotts from conservative audiences. Meanwhile, Gal Gadot’s portrayal of the Evil Queen has sparked protests from anti-Israel activists due to her public support for Israel and her past service in the Israeli Defense Forces. These political tensions have created a toxic environment around the film’s release, further dividing audiences.
Ultimately, Snow White serves as a cautionary tale for Hollywood studios attempting to modernize classics without alienating core audiences. Disney’s efforts to reimagine its first princess have resulted in a film that feels disconnected from its roots and burdened by controversy. As box office numbers continue to disappoint, it remains unclear whether Disney can salvage this troubled production or whether it will serve as yet another example of how chasing cultural trends can lead even the most magical of stories astray.
