Staff Reports
Disney’s live-action Snow White remake is shaping up to be one of the most controversial films in recent memory, and not for the reasons a studio might hope. Starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, the production has been embroiled in political and cultural disputes that have overshadowed its cinematic ambitions. From contentious casting decisions to divisive comments by its lead actress, the film has become a lightning rod for criticism, leaving Disney scrambling to salvage its reputation and box office prospects.
Rachel Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White has been a focal point of backlash since her casting was announced in 2021. Critics have questioned whether her Colombian heritage aligns with the traditionally European depiction of the character, sparking debates about Disney’s commitment to authenticity versus modern inclusivity. Ziegler herself fueled the controversy by describing the original 1937 animated film as “dated” and critiquing its romantic themes, calling Prince Charming “a guy who stalks Snow White.” These remarks alienated fans of the classic tale, many of whom view her comments as dismissive of Disney’s legacy.
The controversies don’t stop at casting or creative direction. Zegler’s outspoken political views have further polarized audiences. Her pro-Palestinian stance on social media, coupled with co-star Gal Gadot’s vocal support for Israel, has created an ideological clash that mirrors broader geopolitical tensions. Zegler’s past remarks criticizing Trump voters have also resurfaced, prompting conservative commentators to call for boycotts of the film. This political baggage has left Disney navigating a minefield, with critics accusing the studio of prioritizing activism over storytelling.
Adding fuel to the fire is Disney’s decision to replace the iconic Seven Dwarfs with CGI characters—a move that has sparked outrage among actors with dwarfism. Peter Dinklage initially criticized the project for perpetuating stereotypes, but many small actors argue that Disney’s use of CGI robs them of rare opportunities for high-profile roles. Protests outside Disney headquarters have highlighted frustrations within the dwarfism community, further complicating the studio’s efforts to promote inclusivity while avoiding controversy.
Disney’s marketing strategy reflects its lack of confidence in the film’s reception. The studio opted for a scaled-back premiere at Los Angeles’ El Capitan Theatre, limiting press access and foregoing traditional red-carpet fanfare. Advance ticket sales were launched less than two weeks before release—a stark departure from Disney’s usual promotional playbook. Industry insiders interpret these moves as an attempt to minimize scrutiny rather than generate excitement, signaling doubts about whether Snow White can overcome its negative publicity.
Ultimately, Snow White represents a cautionary tale for Hollywood studios attempting to modernize beloved classics while navigating cultural sensitivities and political divisions. With an estimated $250 million production budget and opening weekend projections hovering around $50 million, Disney faces an uphill battle to recoup its investment. The film’s controversies may serve as a reminder that audiences seek escapism—not lectures—when they buy a movie ticket. Whether Snow White can find its happily-ever-after remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Disney has learned that even fairy tales aren’t immune to real-world drama.
