Los Angeles: Disney’s live-action remake of ‘Snow White’ debuts in theaters this Friday, facing intense scrutiny and cultural debates that could influence its box office performance.
The big-budget adaptation of Walt Disney’s 1937 animated classic has been in development since 2016, following the success of other live-action Disney remakes such as Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, and The Jungle Book.
Director Marc Webb (The Amazing Spider-Man) was brought on board to update the fairy tale for contemporary audiences, infusing it with musical elements.
With an estimated production budget of $270 million, Snow White has found itself entangled in broader national debates, including race representation, the 2024 US election, and the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Rachel Zegler stars in the new music video for Waiting On A Wish, filmed on location at Alcázar de Segovia Castle in Spain 🏰✨
Experience the magic of Disney’s #SnowWhite, in theaters tonight. Get tickets now: https://t.co/SWksDu7sSe pic.twitter.com/79PC6SN5sQ
— Walt Disney Studios (@DisneyStudios) March 20, 2025
Like Disney’s 2023 remake of The Little Mermaid, Snow White drew criticism for its casting choices. The selection of Rachel Zegler, an actress of Colombian descent, led to accusations of the film being overly “woke,” with online detractors labeling it “Snow Woke.”
Zegler added fuel to the fire with social media posts condemning Trump supporters after the 2024 election. She later apologized, stating her emotions had gotten the best of her. Meanwhile, Gal Gadot, who portrays the Evil Queen, faced backlash from pro-Palestinian groups due to her vocal support for Israel following the October 7 attack.
To avoid further controversies, Disney restricted media interviews at the film’s Los Angeles premiere, which took place in a tented area behind the El Capitan Theatre instead of the traditional Hollywood Boulevard setting.
Despite the controversies, early reactions to the film were positive. Audience members applauded its musical numbers, and some critics hailed it as one of Disney’s best live-action remakes in years.
