Disney’s latest live-action remake, Snow White (2025), has become one of the year’s most talked-about films—not just for its lavish production, but for the firestorm of controversy and unexpected streaming success that followed its release.
A Bold New Take on a Classic
Directed by Marc Webb and starring
Rachel Zegler as Snow White and
Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, the film reimagines the 1937 animated classic with a modern twist. Zegler’s Snow White is joined by seven magical forest dwellers and a rogue bandit named Jonathan, played by Andrew Burnap, as she fights to reclaim her kingdom.
Disney poured an estimated
$240–270 million into the production, making it one of the studio’s most expensive projects ever. The film premiered at the Alcázar of Segovia in Spain on March 12, 2025, and hit U.S. theaters on March 21.
Controversy Before and After Release
The film’s journey to the big screen was anything but smooth.
Casting choices—especially Zegler, an actress of Colombian descent, in the iconic role—sparked heated debate online. Some critics argued that the casting was inconsistent with the character’s traditional depiction, while others praised Disney’s commitment to diversity.
The controversy deepened when Zegler publicly criticized the original film’s “sexist elements,” leading to backlash from fans who felt she didn’t appreciate the legacy of the character. Political tensions also flared, with both Zegler and Gadot’s comments on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict fueling calls for boycotts from opposing sides.
Disney responded by limiting press access at the film’s premiere, allowing only photographers and house crew, in an effort to control the narrative and avoid uncomfortable questions.
Box Office Bomb, Streaming Sensation
Despite the buzz,
Snow White struggled at the box office, grossing just
$206 million worldwide—well below its massive budget. Analysts quickly labeled it a box-office bomb.
But the story didn’t end there. When the film hit Disney+ on June 11, 2025, it saw a
405% spike in viewership compared to its premium digital release. According to Nielsen, Snow White was streamed for
581 million minutes in its first week on the platform, making it the fifth most-streamed film that week. The numbers remained strong in subsequent weeks, proving that controversy can sometimes drive curiosity—and clicks.
Rachel Zegler Breaks Her Silence
Amid the backlash, Rachel Zegler addressed critics directly, expressing gratitude for those who supported her and emphasizing her love for the character. She acknowledged the intense scrutiny but stood by her interpretation, saying,
“I’m proud of the work we did and the story we told. Snow White is for everyone.”What’s Next for Disney’s Remakes?
The mixed reception to Snow White raises questions about the future of Disney’s live-action strategy. While the film’s streaming success suggests there’s still appetite for reimagined classics, the controversies highlight the risks of updating beloved stories for modern audiences.
Key Takeaways:- Disney’s Snow White remake generated intense debate over casting, story changes, and political statements.
- The film underperformed at the box office but became a streaming hit on Disney+.
- Rachel Zegler responded to critics, reaffirming her commitment to the role.
- The saga underscores the challenges—and opportunities—of reinventing iconic tales for a new generation.
Sources
1. Snow White (2025 film) - Wikipedia
2. Disney's 'Snow White' Live-Action Remake Controversy, ...
3. Disney's Snow White | Official Trailer | In Theaters March 21 - YouTube
4. All the Controversies Surrounding Disney's Snow White Remake
5. Rachel Zegler Responds To ‘Snow White’ Backlash
