Disney’s much-anticipated remake of “Snow White,” featuring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, has turned into a box office bomb, prompting intense backlash from both audiences and critics. The film, which aimed to modernize the classic fairy tale, has been criticized for its controversial character changes and agenda-driven plot.

Since its release on March 23, 2025, “Snow White” has struggled to connect with viewers. Critics have overwhelmingly labeled it a failure, citing poor writing, lackluster performances, and an apparent disregard for the essence of the original story. The film’s attempt to reimagine the prince as a bandit character, rather than a traditional romantic hero, has been particularly contentious. Zegler defended this choice as a means of promoting female empowerment, arguing that the new Snow White does not rely on a prince for her strength. However, many believe that these changes have stripped the narrative of its heart and coherence, reducing the prince to a mere supporting character.

The backlash has escalated, with audiences feeling alienated by what they perceive as a heavy-handed political message overshadowing the fairy tale’s charm. Zegler’s assertions that the film serves an educational purpose regarding female independence have done little to quell criticism. Instead, many argue that the film’s disjointed storytelling and bizarre character reinterpretations have rendered it unrecognizable from the beloved classic.

Moreover, the film’s portrayal of the dwarves has drawn ire, with CGI designs described as unsettling rather than endearing. Critics assert that the film’s attempts to cater to contemporary values have led to a disconnection from the timeless magic that originally captivated audiences.

In summary, “Snow White” has failed to resonate, with its ambitious reworking seen as more of an ideological exercise than a genuine storytelling endeavor. As Disney grapples with the fallout, it remains to be seen whether future projects will heed the lessons learned from this misfire.