Disney’s latest live-action remake of “Snow White,” released on March 21, 2025, has sparked widespread criticism, with many calling it the studio’s most “unforgivable” adaptation yet. Despite its high production costs of $270 million, the film has underperformed at the box office, with reports suggesting it is one of the worst-performing live-action Disney adaptations to date.
The film features Rachel Zegler in the titular role, but early reviews highlight a lack of strong performances across the cast. Critics have pointed out that the film attempts to merge the original fairytale with a secondary plot involving Snow White leading a rebellion against the evil queen, resulting in a disjointed narrative that lacks coherence. This deviation from the beloved 1937 animated classic has left many fans dissatisfied, particularly with the portrayal of Snow White, who oscillates between being a damsel in distress and a fierce revolutionary figure.
The film’s heavy-handed political messaging and social themes have also raised eyebrows, with some viewers feeling that the historical essence of the original story was lost. The dwarfs, who were central to the original narrative, are relegated to mere background characters in the remake, further diluting the film’s emotional depth. Critics have noted that the relationship between Snow White and the dwarfs, which was pivotal in the animated version, is inadequately developed in this adaptation.
Overall, the 2025 “Snow White” remake has garnered a mix of disappointment and frustration from audiences and critics alike. Many agree that Disney’s attempt to modernize a classic tale has resulted in a muddled interpretation that fails to honor the original’s themes and characters. As discussions around the film continue, it remains to be seen whether Disney will learn from this backlash as it navigates its future remakes.