Japan's beloved young actress and singer, Kiryu Yui, has been officially announced as the voice of Snow White for the Japanese dubbed version of the upcoming live-action musical film, "Snow White." The much-anticipated movie is set to hit theaters on March 20, 2025, reviving the classic Disney tale for a new generation.
Kiryu's casting marks her first foray as a voice actress, and the announcement has stirred excitement within both the entertainment community and fans alike. Known for her impressive vocal skills and acting prowess, Kiryu was lauded for her performances in various musicals, particularly as Peter Pan and Juliet, showcasing her remarkable talent at such a young age.
Upon hearing the news of her role, Kiryu expressed her overwhelming joy and relief, stating, "I was so happy when I found out; I had to voice my surprise!" This reflects the culmination of her dream to voice the famous princess, having admired the Snow White character since childhood.
Notably, the film brings back the iconic story of Snow White, initially popularized by Disney's first-ever animated feature back in 1937. The live-action adaptation promises to deliver not only the nostalgia of the original story but also incorporate splendid musical elements as it transitions from animated storytelling to live performance.
The character of Snow White will be portrayed by Rachel Zegler who recently received acclaim for her performance and won the Golden Globe for her leading role. Expressing her admiration for Zegler’s voice, Kiryu noted, "Rachel's voice was so powerful yet delicate, and it captivated me immediately," indicating her intent to learn and channel Zegler's expression throughout her own performance.
With such high expectations, Kiryu has been dedicated to extensive voice training, preparing for the significant demands of the role. "I hope viewers can enjoy the differences in the music throughout the film, as it is all so beautiful," she commented. This indicates not only her commitment to the character but also her desire to create a distinct experience for the audience.
The narrative follows Snow White, the pure-hearted princess, as she navigates the challenges brought by her jealous stepmother, the evil queen, portrayed by Gal Gadot. Viewers can anticipate how themes of kindness and courage, true to the original tale, will resonate within this new musical format, making it both compelling and relevant.
Snow White's story is enriched by beautiful scores and songs crafted by acclaimed composers known for their contributions to other renowned Disney musicals. The integration of these new songs promises to create both surprise and emotional depth as audiences are introduced to Snow White's enchanting world.
Reflecting on her approach to bringing Snow White to life, Kiryu emphasized her sense of responsibility to portray the character's growth and gentleness meaningfully, saying, "I have to express Snow White's evolution from innocence to strength delicately, and I have practiced extensively to accomplish this. I genuinely believe each song beautifully encapsulates her emotional turmoil and growth, so I can't wait for everyone to experience it."
Many fans and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting this adaptation. Kiryu’s combination of experience, vocal talent, and heartfelt dedication to the role create high hopes for her portrayal of one of the world's most cherished characters. With the film's release just around the corner, the buzz surrounding "Snow White" is expected to grow as anticipation builds for Kiryu Yui’s enchanting performance.