Disney’s Snow White Live-Action Remake Sparks Culture War Backlash

Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs has been marred by controversy, with critics pointing to issues involving the cast, politics of the lead actress, and a highly visible wig. The film, which was released in March 2023, stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White and features an ensemble cast including Gal Gadot and Luke Evans. However, some have taken issue with the casting choices, with Gadot’s involvement reportedly sparking tensions within the production team.

Additionally, the lead actress, Rachel Zegler, has been accused of using her platform to promote progressive politics, which some see as at odds with the film’s traditional fairy tale roots. The most notable controversy surrounding the film, however, is the highly visible wig worn by Zegler, which has sparked debate among fans and critics alike.

While Disney has not commented on the specific controversies, it remains to be seen whether these issues will ultimately impact the film’s reception. With a production budget of over $200 million, the live-action remake was expected to be a major box office hit, but the ongoing cultural debates surrounding its release may prove costly.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/20/business/snow-white-movie-controversies.html