In a dramatic turn of events, Disney’s highly anticipated remake of “Snow White” has floundered at the box office, leading to a wave of backlash from both critics and fans. The film, starring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, was expected to breathe new life into the classic tale, but it has instead sparked controversy over significant character changes and what many perceive as an agenda-driven narrative.
Released on March 23, 2025, “Snow White” has struggled to connect with audiences, receiving a barrage of negative reviews. Critics have pointed to a myriad of issues, including poor writing and acting, as key factors in the film’s failure. Central to the criticism is Zegler’s interpretation of Snow White, which aims to subvert the traditional prince-and-princess love story. In a move that has drawn ire, the prince character has been reimagined as a bandit, diminishing his heroic qualities to promote a narrative of female empowerment.
Zegler has taken to defending the film, claiming that its alterations were meant to create a more modern portrayal of Snow White, one that emphasizes independence over reliance on a male figure. However, her assertions have only exacerbated the backlash, as many viewers feel that the film’s heavy-handed messaging overshadows the charm of the original story.
The changes don’t stop at character dynamics. Snow White’s own characterization has been altered, with her name now reflecting a survival story rather than her renowned beauty. Audiences have also criticized the depiction of CGI dwarves, which many found unsettling rather than endearing.
As the backlash intensifies, Zegler’s attempts at damage control appear to be falling flat. Critics argue that the film’s disconnect from its source material has transformed it into a political statement rather than a fairy tale. The consensus among disappointed fans is that Disney’s effort to modernize “Snow White” has resulted in a lackluster product that fails to resonate on an emotional level. With the film’s future looking bleak, the conversation surrounding Disney’s creative direction continues to grow louder.