Disney's much-anticipated live-action remake of Snow White has officially arrived on streaming platforms, sparking a whirlwind of reactions from fans and industry insiders alike. As of June 11, 2025, viewers in the United States can watch the film on Disney+, while audiences in India can access it via JioCinema through Disney+ Hotstar. This release marks a significant moment, not just for Disney enthusiasts, but for anyone intrigued by how classic stories are reimagined for modern audiences.
Directed by Marc Webb, known for his work on The Amazing Spider-Man, this version of Snow White stars Rachel Zegler in the titular role, with Gal Gadot portraying the formidable Evil Queen. But this isn’t your grandmother’s fairy tale. Rather than the traditional portrayal of Snow White as a passive damsel awaiting rescue, this adaptation presents her as an empowered heroine with her own agency and ambitions. This fresh take has been both praised and criticized, igniting passionate discussions across social media and entertainment circles.
At the box office, the film pulled in approximately $205 million worldwide—$87.2 million domestically and $118.3 million internationally, according to Forbes. While these numbers are respectable, they fell short of covering the film’s hefty production budget, estimated between $240 million and $270 million. The opening weekend domestic gross was a modest $43 million, which industry insiders view as underwhelming given the film’s profile and Disney’s marketing muscle.
One of the most talked-about creative choices was the use of CGI to portray the seven dwarfs instead of casting live actors. This decision stirred controversy among longtime fans who felt it strayed too far from the beloved original. Additionally, some viewers criticized the costume designs, labeling them as "off-brand" and not reflective of the classic Disney aesthetic. These elements, combined with the modernized storyline, have contributed to a mixed reception.
The film’s soundtrack, however, has found favor with many. Featuring new songs by the Oscar-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul—famed for their work on La La Land and The Greatest Showman—the music blends original Disney classics like "Heigh-Ho" and "Whistle While You Work" with fresh compositions. Tracks such as "Waiting on a Wish" offer heartfelt ballads that complement the film’s updated tone, providing a bridge between nostalgia and innovation.
Despite the excitement surrounding the film's release, Rachel Zegler has found herself at the center of heated debates. During promotional interviews, she described the original 1937 animated film as an "outdated" tale that cast Snow White as a "damsel in distress." This candid remark sparked backlash on social media, with some accusing her of disrespecting a cherished Disney legacy. Others questioned her casting, arguing she didn’t fit the traditional image of Snow White. This controversy has made the film one of the most polarizing Disney releases in recent memory.
Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, has reportedly been affected by the film’s underperformance. According to a source close to the actress, the disappointing box office returns have been a major blow. “Even for an actress with a perfect reputation, the poor performance of Snow White would be a major blow,” the source revealed. “But for Gal, who relied on the movie to put her back on top of the A-list, it’s been incredibly difficult to see the film fail to connect with audiences all over the world.” The source further noted that this setback is pushing Gadot to rethink her Hollywood persona and carefully select future projects in an effort to reinvent herself.
Disney, meanwhile, is doubling down on the film’s availability and legacy. Alongside streaming the new live-action adaptation, fans can also watch the original 1937 animated classic, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which holds a special place in cinematic history as the studio’s first full-length animated feature. For collectors and devoted fans, a full home media release is scheduled for June 24, 2025, including 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD editions. These physical releases promise exclusive content such as deleted scenes, bloopers, sing-alongs, and behind-the-scenes extras, offering a deeper dive into the making of the film.
Additionally, Disney plans to release a two-movie bundle featuring both the new remake and the original film, catering to audiences eager to compare and contrast these very different interpretations of the same story. This strategic move underscores Disney’s commitment to honoring its past while exploring new creative directions.
So, what does this all mean for viewers and Disney fans? Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of the original or curious about the modern spin, the new Snow White invites audiences to engage with a familiar tale through a contemporary lens. It’s a story about reclaiming power, self-discovery, and leadership—elements that resonate strongly in today’s cultural landscape.
Of course, the film’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. The casting controversies, mixed critical reception, and box office struggles highlight the challenges Disney faces when updating beloved classics. Yet, it also sparks important conversations about representation, storytelling, and how fairy tales evolve over time.
Rachel Zegler’s and Gal Gadot’s performances bring depth to their roles, even amid the surrounding drama. For many, the film’s soundtrack and vibrant visuals offer an enchanting experience that balances the old with the new. And for those who missed it in theaters or prefer the comfort of home viewing, the availability on Disney+ and JioCinema makes it easy to join the ongoing discourse.
Ultimately, Disney’s Snow White is more than just a remake—it’s a reflection of how stories adapt to changing times and audiences. Whether it will be remembered as a bold reinvention or a misstep remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: this fairy tale has once again captured the spotlight, inviting viewers to decide for themselves what magic lies within.
