Disney's long-awaited live-action remake of its animated classic "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" hits theaters this weekend amidst a whirlwind of praise and criticism. Directed by Marc Webb, known for films such as "(500) Days of Summer" and "The Amazing Spider-Man," the new rendition brings fresh life into the iconic story, all while navigating contemporary controversies and a mix of reception.
Set to officially premiere on March 21, 2025, the film stars Rachel Zegler in the titular role and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen. The duo headlines a cast that also features Andrew Burnap, Tituss Burgess, and others. The runtime clocks in at 109 minutes, earning a PG rating due to mild violence and thematic elements. As the first full-length animated feature from Disney back in 1937, the original film marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history, holding the record as the highest-grossing animated film for an impressive 55 years.
However, the journey to this live-action transformation has not been without its bumps. Prior to its release, the film faced various controversies, including critiques on casting choices. Rachel Zegler's casting as the non-traditional princess sparked discussion about diversity and representation in current times. Along with discussions on the appropriateness of modern interpretations of fairy-tale figures, tensions arose when co-star Gadot was positioned in the spotlight for her political views regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These social dynamics created an undercurrent of skepticism and scrutiny as critics and audiences alike looked forward to the film’s debut.
Upon its premiere, early feedback on the movie has proven to be mixed. As of March 19, 2025, the film has reportedly garnered a 45% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, signifying that its reception is split among viewers. Many critics recognized Zegler’s performance as charming and beautiful, highlighting her powerful vocals and refreshing depiction of Snow White as an empowered young woman, even as they place varying importance on how well the entirety of the film meets expectations.
Kate Erbland of IndieWire praised Zegler’s ability to breathe life into her character, stating that the film is, "a spirited and sweet spin on classic material that deserves kudos for its balance of necessary updates and affection for the old ways." On the flip side, criticism has been leveled at the CGI representation of the dwarves. In a scathing review, William Bibbiani from The Wrap referred to them as, "sun-dried orange peels wearing too much foundation," illustrating the discontent surrounding their animated depiction in comparison to the original animated counterparts.
Yet, the heart of this live-action adaptation seeks to present a Snow White who is much more than just a damsel in distress. The character Arc has been decidedly updated to reflect a heroine driven by agency and leadership, her journey illustrated through new musical numbers like "Waiting On A Wish," co-written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter remarked on Zegler's ability to deliver the film’s messages with, "conviction and heart," even as he expressed a desire for more balance in the adaptation's pacing and tone.
As audiences flood into theaters to catch the latest take on this timeless tale, several reviews have captured the mixed nature of the experience. Critics have observed some moments of charm, such as the energetic duet "A Hand Meets a Hand," which exemplifies the budding romance between Zegler's Snow White and Burnap's character Jonathan, diverging from the traditional love interest archetype.
Despite its creative songs and contemporary messages of empowerment, not all feedback has been glowing. Reviewers like Nick Schager from The Daily Beast have expressed disappointment, labeling it "the lamest Mouse House re-do of them all." These contradictory sentiments show the significant challenges the film encountered in both maintaining the nostalgia of the original while also pleasing an evolving audience.
The film does employ visual effects and production teams that aim to evoke the enchantment of the fairy tale genre. Cinematography by Mandy Walker and costume design by Sandy Powell aim to create a captivating experience. Yet, some critiques have pointed out a disconnection between the storytelling and musical elements, suggesting that while the film could conjure nostalgia, it often slips into formulaic execution.
In a new twist, the film introduces a more rebellious Snow White who finds herself not solely reliant on a prince to rescue her. Audiences will see a more dynamic relationship with her new romantic interest, who resembles something like a Robin Hood figure, complete with a crew of woodland bandits supporting her journey. The Evil Queen, on the other hand, embodies more complexity, elevated through Gadot’s rendition, bringing not only a mischievous edge but also drawing forth an exploration of jealousy and vanity within her role.
As the film unfolds in theaters nationwide, it remains to be seen whether it will resonate positively across a spectrum of Disney fans or if the controversies and criticisms will overshadow the narrative that seeks to honor the classic tale. What remains clear is that this "Snow White" offers a fresh retelling geared towards a generation ready for modern fare—a timeless endeavor that pays respect to the beloved legacy while also opening new paths for interpretation—and yet, just like the magic mirror, it reveals a more complex reflection of what a fairy tale can mean today.
