Inside Story

Disney’s latest live-action adaptation, “Snow White,” debuted to a modest $43 million in North America, falling short of its projected $50 million opening. Internationally, the film garnered an additional $44.3 million, bringing its global total to $87.3 million. These figures are concerning, especially considering the film’s substantial production budget of over $250 million. ​

Several elements have contributed to the film’s lackluster performance:

Casting Choices: The selection of Rachel Zegler, an actress of Colombian descent, as Snow White sparked debates about staying true to the character’s traditional portrayal. ​

Character Representation: Disney’s decision to reimagine the seven dwarfs as diverse magical creatures faced criticism, notably from actor Peter Dinklage, who expressed concerns over reinforcing stereotypes. ​

Creative Changes: The omission of iconic elements, such as the song “Some Day My Prince Will Come,” led to discussions about altering classic narratives to fit modern sensibilities. ​
Barron’s

The film received mixed reviews. While Rachel Zegler’s performance was praised by some critics, others felt the movie lacked the charm of the original 1937 animated classic. The film holds a 43% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and received a “B+” CinemaScore from audiences. ​

Despite the initial setback, Disney remains optimistic. Historically, some live-action remakes have started slow but gained momentum over time. The studio has plans for more adaptations, including “Moana,” “Tangled,” and “Lilo & Stitch,” aiming to breathe new life into beloved tales. ​

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