Snow White is one of the most beloved fairytales ever created, and it is set to enchant audiences once again in a brand-new live-action remake produced by Walt Disney Pictures. The original 1937 animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, was Disney’s first full-length animated feature and has remained a timeless classic. The story of Snow White has been reimagined in various forms over the years, including two live-action adaptations in 2012: Mirror Mirror starring Lily Collins and Snow White and the Huntsman starring Kristen Stewart. Both films featured the iconic Evil Queen, who will also play a central role in the upcoming Disney remake. This new adaptation has been in development since 2016, generating significant excitement and controversy alike. Fans were disappointed to learn that the film’s release date has been pushed back, but the anticipation for its arrival on the big screen remains palpable.
The live-action Snow White film is set to premiere on March 21, 2025, according to Variety. Initially slated for release on March 22, 2024, the movie’s delay has left fans eagerly waiting for its theatrical debut. While Disney has not yet announced when the film will be available on Disney+, it is likely to follow the standard pattern of premiering on the streaming platform after its run in theaters. Production began in March 2022, with filming temporarily halted due to a fire at Pinewood Studios in England. Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, confirmed in April 2022 that she had completed her scenes, which include musical numbers. Principal photography wrapped up in July 2022, with additional filming sessions scheduled for June 2024. The film’s musical elements are being handled by the acclaimed songwriting duo Pasek & Paul, known for their work on La La Land and The Greatest Showman, ensuring that the remake will feature fresh,original songs while staying true to the spirit of the original.
At the heart of this adaptation is Rachel Zegler, who has been cast as Snow White. Rachel made her acting debut in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake of West Side Story, earning widespread acclaim and winning the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical. Her casting as Snow White was officially announced in June 2021, and she has expressed her excitement about bringing this iconic character to life. “Well… hello to a dream come true,” Rachel wrote on Instagram, later cutting her hair into a short bob to embody the role. However, her casting was not without controversy. As a Latina actress, Rachel faced backlash from some fans who questioned her suitability for the role. In an interview with Variety, Rachel addressed the criticism, stating, “You don’t normally see Snow Whites that are of Latin descent… You don’t particularly see people who look like me or are me playing roles like that.” She emphasized her commitment to the role, saying, “I get to be a Latina princess.”
Rachel also sparked debate when she discussed the modern approach of the film, noting that Snow White would not be portrayed as a damsel in distress waiting for a prince to save her. In an interview with Variety, she explained, “She’s not going to be saved by the prince, and she’s not going to be dreaming about true love. She’s dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be.” Rachel further criticized the original 1937 film’s portrayal of Snow White’s love story, calling it “weird” and pointing out that the prince’s behavior could be seen as stalking. Her comments resurfaced online, leading to intense backlash from some fans and critics. Rachel responded to the criticism on Twitter, writing heartfelt messages about kindness and empathy. “I hope the world becomes kinder,” she tweeted, adding, “Remember to be kind. Treat each other with patience and empathy. You deserve love. You deserve to live without fear.”
The cast of Snow White also includes Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, a role she has expressed excitement about. Best known for her portrayal of Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe, Gal was officially cast in November 2021 and has teased her character’s complexity. Joining Rachel and Gal is Andrew Burnap, who plays a new character named Jonathan. A Tony Award-winning actor, Andrew is known for his roles in Broadway’s The Inheritance and television shows like Under the Banner of Heaven. The film is directed by Marc Webb, known for The Amazing Spider-Man and its sequel, and written by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson. The production team includes cinematographer Mandy Walker, editor Mark Sanger, and producer Marc Platt. The combination of this talented cast and crew promises a fresh and imaginative take on the classic tale.
The plot of the live-action Snow White is expected to expand on the story and music of the original animated film, incorporating new songs and a modern perspective. While specific details about the storyline are still under wraps, key elements from the 1937 version—such as the magic mirror, the poisoned apple, and the glass coffin—are set to return. The film is an adaptation of both the Brothers Grimm’s 1812 fairytale and Disney’s animated classic, offering a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Disney debuted the first trailer at the D23 Expo in September 2022, though it has not been widely released. Rachel Zegler’s emotional reaction to the trailer’s premiere was captured on video, showing her in tears as she responded to the audience’s enthusiasm.
Despite the excitement surrounding the film, it has faced criticism on several fronts. Peter Dinklage, known for his role in Game of Thrones, has been vocal about his dismay over the remake, calling it “backwards” for featuring the Seven Dwarfs. He criticized the story’s portrayal of the dwarfs living in a cave together, arguing that it reinforces outdated stereotypes. Disney responded to his comments, stating that they are taking a different approach to the characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Additionally, David Hand, the son of an animator who worked on the original film, has expressed disappointment in Disney’s modern take, calling it “woke” and disrespectful to the legacy of the 1937 classic. These criticisms highlight the challenges of remaking a beloved story while balancing tradition and progress.
In conclusion, Disney’s live-action Snow White is a highly anticipated and deeply personal reimagining of a classic tale. With Rachel Zegler at its center, the film promises to introduce Snow White to a new generation, offering a modern and empowering vision of the character. The addition of Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen and a talented creative team ensures that the film will be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. While controversies and delays have surrounded the project, the enduring magic of Snow White’s story remains at the heart of this adaptation. As fans await its release on March 21, 2025, the hope is that this new chapter in the Snow White saga will honor its legacy while carving out a bold new path.
