Rachel Zegler's 'Snow White' Faces Backlash Amid Mixed Reviews and Box Office Concerns
March 20, 2025
Critics have described the dwarfs in the new film as terrifying and poorly designed, contrasting sharply with the charming caricatures of the original animated classic.
While the film attempts to introduce modern themes alongside the original story, critics argue that these changes are superficial and lack depth.
Cinematography by Mandy Walker and production design contribute to a visually enchanting experience, blending physical sets with digital effects.
Rachel Zegler, who stars as Snow White in Disney's live-action remake, has garnered support from notable actresses like Helen Mirren and Ariana Grande amid backlash regarding her casting.
Many reviews have labeled the film as forgettable and bland, suggesting it fails to achieve classic status or even become a guilty pleasure.
Despite some positive notes, the film struggles to balance nostalgia with fresh elements, often feeling disconnected and leaving characters underdeveloped.
As the release date approached, industry experts expressed uncertainty about the film's ability to resonate with modern audiences amid shifting social consciousness.
Ultimately, while the film concludes with a traditional happily-ever-after and a message about inner beauty, it struggles to stand out among Disney's previous adaptations.
The film, which premiered in theaters on March 20, 2025, is rated PG for violence, some peril, thematic elements, and brief rude humor.
The creative team aims to honor the legacy of the original film while introducing new music and scenes that were absent from the animation.
Despite the film's strengths, including catchy new songs, it struggles with its CGI elements, particularly the digital dwarfs, which detract from the overall experience.
With a production budget of approximately $250 million, the film must earn at least $700 million at the box office to break even.
Summary based on 132 sources
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Sources

The New York Times • Mar 20, 2025
‘Snow White’ Review: A Princess’s Progress
BBC News • Mar 20, 2025
Snow White film is both 'bad' and 'captivating' say critics
