Disney’s live-action Snow White finally hit theaters on March 21. It previously premiered on March 12, at Alcázar of Segovia in Spain, after years of development buzz and heated debates. Directed by Marc Webb, the reimagined fairy tale stars Rachel Zegler as the iconic princess and Gal Gadot as the morally complex Evil Queen. With a budget reportedly soaring past $240 million, the film blends fresh musical numbers from Oscar-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul with a modernized storyline. While nostalgia drives its appeal, the movie’s bold creative choices have sparked both applause and outrage.

Disney’s latest live-action gamble faced towering expectations and a lion-sized rival. Could its reimagined heroine rise to the challenge?

Snow White raked in $3.5 million during Thursday previews, outpacing Mufasa: The Lion King’s $2.6 million December 2024 debut. Industry analysts noted that the film’s $250 million+ budget, however, loomed as a hurdle, requiring sustained success to offset costs. Early turnout hinted at audience curiosity, though mixed reviews and competition might loom as potential hurdles for Disney’s high-stakes revival.

Rachel Zegler’s portrayal reimagined Snow White as a leader focused on justice and empathy, distancing her from the original’s passive archetype. Gal Gadot’s Evil Queen grappled with a revamped obsession being morally fairest-adding psychological complexity. The film’s Broadway-inspired score, including a show-stopping opener, earned praise for blending classic melodies with modern flair. Critics, however, questioned subtle nods to social hierarchy, arguing they muddled the fairy tale’s timeless appeal.

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While Snow White seems to have stood upon the anticipation it created, it seems that the creative risks, that ignited a cultural reckoning are all worth it now.

Casting Rachel Zegler, a Latina actress, as Snow White triggered accusations of forced wokeness from conservative circles. Critics argued the role should have prioritized authentic European casting, dubbing the film 'Snow Woke'. Zegler addressed the backlash gracefully, calling it a catalyst for personal growth. Simultaneously, Disney faced scrutiny over its handling of the seven dwarfs, initially reimagined as CGI magical creatures after outcry over outdated stereotypes.

Advocates for dwarfism representation slammed the studio for replacing actors with the condition with digital creations. Many actors with dwarfism expressed frustration, noting the lack of meaningful roles in mainstream media. Disney’s pivot to fantastical creatures varying in gender and ethnicity failed to appease critics. Despite polarizing choices, the film’s focus on identity and moral complexity cemented its role in Hollywood’s ongoing diversity debate.

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Can Snow White’s $3.5M preview haul offset its $250M gamble? Share your box office predictions below!