In a highly publicized and controversial lead-up to the release of Disney's live-action remake of Snow White, the film has caught the attention of critics and audiences alike for its bold reimagining of a classic story. With a host of modern commentary surrounding political correctness, representation, and industry expectations, the film has taken on a life of its own far beyond its intended fairy tale narrative.
On March 15, 2025, the film saw a markedly scaled-back premiere compared to traditional Disney standards, a reflection perhaps of the controversies that have swirled around it. Critiques of casting choices, comments made by lead actor Rachel Zegler, and even the portrayal of traditionally beloved characters have all played a part in shaping public perception. Zegler, who plays the titular young princess, faced significant pushback from some sectors when it was announced that a Latina actress would take the lead role. Critics were keen to point out inconsistencies with the original character being described as having “skin as white as snow.” Commenting on her experience in Hollywood, Zegler replied, “The reality is, I was given a chance because I could sing,” emphasizing the importance of talent over heritage.
In an interview with Allure, she recalled being asked by white executives to prove her Colombian heritage during auditions for her break-out role in West Side Story. This anecdote highlights the scrutiny that various actors of color face in the industry. “I remember thinking, ‘Do you want me to bring my abuelita in? I will. I'll bring her into the studio if you want to meet her,’” she expressed with bemusement over the unreasonable expectations placed upon her.
The film's negativity burgeoned from initial casting announcements to Zegler’s progressive reinterpretations of Snow White's character. Unlike in the original 1937 iteration, Zegler states, “She’s not going to be saved by the prince, and she’s not going to be dreaming about true love. She’s dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be.” This radical overhaul of character signal's an attempt to align with modern values regarding female empowerment and agency, but it spans divisive opinions among fans and critics.
Adding to the tension within the film's narrative is the controversy around the portrayal of the seven dwarfs. Renowned actor Peter Dinklage criticized Disney's decision to animate the dwarfs using CGI, which raised eyebrows amid a broader conversation on representation and casting of marginalized actors. “They were very proud to cast a Latina actress as Snow White, but you’re still telling the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Dinklage remarked on the podcast WTF with Marc Maron. Disney responded to the backlash by stating they were working closely with the dwarfism community in crafting their portrayal, clamoring to navigate a difficult balance of honoring the classic while bringing it into the 21st century.
Director Marc Webb, who helmed the film, noted that the remake is as much about nostalgia as it is about reflecting contemporary sensibilities. He stated, “The original Snow White didn’t break the mold... it created the mold,” pushing the idea that their investment lies not only in rehashing a story but in reinterpreting themes aimed at modern audiences. Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White promises to define her journey through leadership, control, and personal development.
The promotional events leading up to the premiere mirrored the contradictory nature of the film—a glaring spectacle set against a backdrop of muted media coverage due to the swirling controversies. As reported by Variety, the March 15 premiere was trimmed down to exclude standard press configurations, limiting media access to a small cadre of photographers and in-house crew only. The circumstances surrounding this event add layers to the complexity of Disney's public relations efforts—attempting to project a ‘family-friendly’ image while grappling with external perceptions and criticism.
Despite the noise, the film has found an audience willing to appreciate its ambition and fresh approach. Initial reviews have described the new adaptation as “enchanting,” with some critics marveling at Zegler's performance as “the biggest surprise of 2025.” Even amidst contrasting opinions regarding the political undertones, the film has garnered attention for its potential to resonate with younger audiences who crave more dynamic representations in media.
With its release scheduled for March 21, 2025, the multi-layered narrative surrounding Snow White is indicative of broader societal conversations on race, identity, and the evolution of traditional storytelling. As Disney attempts to tread the line between reverence for a classic and the demand for contemporary relevance, the outcome remains to be seen—whether the film's enchantment can outweigh the controversies that envelop it.
