The original Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) is an undeniable cornerstone of Disney’s legacy.
As the company’s first full-length animated feature, it set the stage for decades of enchanting storytelling. Known for its timeless charm and beloved characters, the classic has remained a cultural icon for generations.
However, the live-action Snow White, slated for release in March 2025, has sparked intense criticism. Fans have taken issue with major changes to the story, including replacing the iconic seven dwarfs with “magical beings,” as well as controversial comments made by lead actress Rachel Zegler.
Adding to the uncertainty, Disney recently released its Q4 financial results and highlighted several upcoming films for late 2024 and 2025, such as Moana 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King. Surprisingly, Snow White was left out of this discussion entirely. According to Inside the Magic, this omission has led to speculation that Disney may be bracing for fallout or attempting to quietly distance itself from the film.
Fan reactions to the project have been overwhelmingly negative. Comments such as, “Disney: Relive the classic story! Also Disney: Changes the classic story,” reflect widespread dissatisfaction. One fan even wrote, “I want the Queen to win in this version,” a sentiment that underscores how far the remake has veered from the original’s appeal.
The film’s trailers have fared poorly as well. The first received 735,000 dislikes compared to just 69,000 likes on YouTube, while the second trailer has continued to draw harsh criticism. One viewer remarked, “If I saw this movie on a plane, I would still walk out,” encapsulating the frustration many fans feel.
With over $200 million reportedly invested, Disney now faces an uphill battle to salvage the project. Despite Zegler’s attempts to apologize for her past comments, the damage may already be done. For fans of the original classic, the live-action Snow White seems to be heading toward a less-than-happily-ever-after.
