Disney’s latest live-action adaptation, “Snow White,” has ignited a spectrum of reactions from critics and audiences alike. Starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, the film reimagines the 1937 animated classic for a modern audience but not without controversy.
Despite the divided critical response, some audience groups, particularly younger viewers, have responded positively. According to “The Times,” children appreciated the film’s updated feminist storyline and Snow White’s independence from the traditional “damsel in distress” narrative. While the new songs didn’t leave a lasting impression, young viewers reportedly enjoyed Zegler’s performance and the overall message.
From a viewer’s standpoint, “Snow White” has its charms, even if it stumbles at times. Rachel Zegler delivers a grounded, emotionally sincere performance that breathes life into a more self-assured version of the iconic princess. Her voice carries the film’s original music with poise, even though the new songs lack the timeless feel of Disney’s classic numbers.
Visually, the film is a mixed bag. While the sets and costume design are stunning, the CGI-heavy dwarfs can feel distracting and at odds with the film’s otherwise grounded tone. The pacing occasionally lags, especially in the second act, but the film’s emphasis on self-reliance and courage gives it heart.
Ultimately, whether you walk away enchanted or underwhelmed may depend on what you’re looking for: a faithful remake, a bold reimagining or something in between.
However, Peter Bradshaw of “The Guardian” gave the film a particularly scathing review, calling it “exhaustingly awful” and criticizing its “pointless” existence. Bradshaw pointed to the film’s “pseudo-progressive additions” and lamented what he described as the “dullest” performances of Zegler and Gadot’s careers.
On the other hand, “The Independent” reported that early viewers were “thoroughly impressed,” with some even calling it one of Disney’s best live-action remakes in years, a stark contrast to Bradshaw’s take.
“Digital Spy’s” Ian Sandwell offered a more balanced review. He praised Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White as “fully convincing” and highlighted her “emotive vocal
delivery.” However, he critiqued the heavy use of CGI, especially with the seven dwarfs, and argued that the film “plays it too safe” by not veering far from the original.
Financially, however, the film has stumbled. As reported by “The Atlantic,” “Snow White” has grossed under $100 million globally, a disappointing figure for a high-budget Disney release. Analysts suggest that public backlash, polarized reviews and remake fatigue may be contributing to its underperformance.
“Snow White” stands as a reflection of the challenges Disney faces in retelling its classics. With strong performances but divisive creative choices, the film walks a tightrope between nostalgia and modernity, and not everyone is convinced it finds its balance.