In a dramatic turn of events for Disney, the release of the live-action adaptation of “Snow White” has been marred by controversy and disappointing box office performance. The film, which has been widely criticized, is reported to have contributed to a staggering $200 billion loss in Disney’s market capitalization over recent years. This financial downturn has raised concerns about the company’s direction and its ability to resonate with family audiences, a core demographic for the entertainment giant.

Rachel Zegler, the actress playing Snow White, has found herself at the center of the storm. Comments attributed to her, deemed politically charged and inappropriate for the film’s promotional campaign, have sparked backlash. Industry insiders have pointed out that her remarks may have alienated potential viewers, prompting a producer to fly across the country to reprimand her directly. Critics argue that her personal views should not overshadow the film’s marketing efforts, emphasizing that thousands of professionals worked on the project and depend on its success.

The film’s critical reception has been dismal, currently holding a mere 1.6 out of 10 rating on IMDb, with over 163,000 reviews. This lackluster performance echoes broader concerns about Disney’s recent strategy, which some believe has leaned too heavily into what is termed “woke storytelling.” Disney CEO Bob Iger has faced scrutiny for this approach, with calls for a return to more traditional storytelling that prioritizes entertainment over messaging.

As Disney grapples with these challenges, its stock has plummeted from a high of nearly $200 per share in 2020 to around $181 today. This decline reflects not only the poor performance of current films but also a growing disconnect with family-oriented consumers, who are increasingly critical of the company’s direction. As the situation unfolds, industry analysts are watching closely to see how Disney will adapt and whether it can recover from this unprecedented financial hit.