Disney’s latest live-action adaptation of Snow White has been receiving a cold reception from audiences. The trailer, which was recently unveiled, has garnered more than 1 million dislikes on YouTube, far surpassing its mere 80,000 likes. This significant imbalance in reactions reflects the growing dissatisfaction among fans who believe that Disney’s continuous remakes of classic animated films have reached a saturation point.
The backlash has been intense, with over 50,000 comments critiquing the trailer, expressing frustration and disappointment. A major point of contention revolves around the casting of Rachel Zegler in the role of Snow White. Zegler, who had previously faced criticism for her comments describing the original 1937 animated version as “weird” and characterizing Prince Charming as a “stalker,” has faced backlash from fans who view her casting as representative of the perceived problems with the movie.
Adding to the discontent, a leaked scene from the film earlier this year was widely mocked online. The scene, heavily reliant on CGI effects, was criticized for its lack of realism, with one character, Dopey, being likened to Alfred E. Neuman from Mad Magazine. The unrealistic visuals and the stark departure from the beloved animation style to a CGI-laden rendition have only amplified skepticism.
From a financial standpoint, Disney has invested significantly in the project. Reports suggest that the movie’s budget may reach up to $330 million, a substantial sum even for a major entertainment company like Disney. Directed by Marc Webb and written by Greta Gerwig, the film features Zegler alongside Gal Gadot portraying the Evil Queen. Following the completion of principal photography in June 2022, the movie underwent reshoots in 2023, stirring further speculation about the film’s direction.
Scheduled for release in the upcoming year, Snow White faces a formidable task: winning over an audience increasingly skeptical of Disney’s live-action adaptations. As the release date draws nearer, it remains to be seen if the final product can defy the negativity and impress its critics.