For nearly 90 years, Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs has remained a cornerstone of animation history. The 1937 classic was not only the studio’s first feature-length animated film but also a cultural touchstone that laid the foundation for Disney’s empire. Now, after decades of live-action adaptations of beloved animated films, Disney has finally revisited Snow White—but the result is an ambitious yet uneven reimagining.
A Story Caught Between Past and Present
Directed by Marc Webb, the new Snow White attempts to modernize the fairy tale with a fresh perspective. Rachel Zegler takes on the iconic role, of portraying a more independent and assertive princess. The film aims to redefine traditional notions of fairness, beauty, and destiny, moving away from the outdated tropes of the original. Gone is the passive princess awaiting her prince; instead, Snow White is an heir to a throne who must rediscover her strength after her father’s death.
However, the film struggles to balance its modern updates with the spirit of the original. The screenplay by Erin Cressida Wilson reimagines the story with feminist undertones, replacing the idea of “Someday My Prince Will Come” with a protagonist who is encouraged to shape her own future. The classic prince has been removed entirely, replaced by Jonathan (Andrew Burnap), a roguish bandit who serves as Snow White’s motivator rather than her rescuer.
A Visually Stunning Yet Inconsistent Adaptation
Visually, Snow White is undeniably lush. Sandy Powell’s costume design is a highlight, particularly in the strikingly regal wardrobe of the Evil Queen, played by Gal Gadot. Gadot brings a slinky, menacing presence to the role, though the script limits her ability to elevate the character into an iconic villain.
One of the most significant changes is the treatment of the seven dwarfs. The film replaces them with CGI-rendered characters, a decision that has stirred controversy. The choice to move away from live-action dwarf actors—except for one, George Appleby—seems like an attempt to sidestep problematic portrayals, yet it only adds an unsettling quality to the film. The CGI characters contrast awkwardly with the human cast, making the fantasy elements feel artificial rather than immersive.
Musical Updates and Missed Opportunities
Musically, the film introduces new songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), including “Waiting on a Wish.” While the new compositions are enjoyable, they struggle to blend seamlessly with the film’s tone. Meanwhile, the absence of classics like “Someday My Prince Will Come” removes some of the original’s nostalgic charm.
Rachel Zegler shines in moments when she sings, injecting life into a character who otherwise feels somewhat restrained by the screenplay. However, despite her efforts, the film never fully captures the emotional resonance of its animated predecessor.
A Film Burdened by External Controversies
Beyond the film itself, Snow White has been at the center of multiple controversies. Lead actress Rachel Zegler and co-star Gal Gadot have publicly clashed over their views on the Israel-Gaza conflict, leading to online debates. Additionally, the decision to exclude the phrase “and the Seven Dwarfs” from the title sparked discussions on political correctness and representation. While these issues don’t directly impact the film’s quality, they add an extra layer of distraction to an already polarizing project.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, Snow White is an ambitious reimagining that doesn’t quite deliver on its promise. While it succeeds in offering a more progressive heroine, it struggles with tonal inconsistency, awkward visual effects, and a lack of the original’s timeless magic. The film’s attempts to modernize the story feel more like a checklist of social corrections than an organic evolution of the beloved fairy tale.
For audiences hoping to relive the enchantment of the 1937 classic, this adaptation may feel more like a beautifully decorated but hollowed-out version of its predecessor.
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2 out of 4 stars)MPA Rating: PG (for violence, some peril, thematic elements, and brief rude humor)
Runtime: 109 minutes
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
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