In a clear sign that not all is well with the latest Disney live-action remake, the studio is reportedly scaling back its usual extravagant premiere for *Snow White*. Following a wave of backlash over the film’s controversial changes, Disney has opted for a more subdued and private event for the film’s release on March 15, 2025. The decision to host a low-key pre-party and screening at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, as opposed to the usual red carpet spectacle, highlights the increasing scrutiny facing the film.
According to Variety, *Snow White* stars Rachel Zegler, 23, and Gal Gadot, 39, will attend the premiere but will not engage with the media in the typical fashion. Rather than facing a horde of journalists and photographers, Disney has reportedly selected only a handful of media outlets and photographers to cover the event. The scaled-back premiere is just the latest in a string of decisions that have drawn sharp criticism from moviegoers and industry insiders alike.
The live-action *Snow White*, directed by Marc Webb, is set to hit theaters on March 21, but it has already stirred significant controversy. The decision to replace the iconic seven dwarfs with “magical creatures” of various sizes and genders has been widely criticized for being an overly “politically correct” and “woke” approach to the classic fairy tale. This move has left many fans frustrated, with critics arguing that it undermines the traditional story and sacrifices the integrity of the original.
The casting of Zegler, a Latina actress, as Snow White has also sparked heated debates. While diversity in Hollywood is often hailed as a positive step forward, the choice to cast Zegler in the titular role has raised questions about the authenticity of the character’s portrayal. Some feel that Disney is too focused on appeasing a progressive agenda rather than honoring the traditional essence of the character.
Even *Game of Thrones* actor Peter Dinklage, who has dwarfism, weighed in on the controversy, expressing disappointment over the film’s approach to the seven dwarfs. In January 2022, Dinklage criticized Disney for trying to be progressive in some areas while sticking to outdated stereotypes in others. He specifically took issue with the casting of Zegler as a Latina actress while still maintaining the use of the “seven dwarfs” trope from the original film. “What the f–k are you doing, man?” Dinklage said. “I guess I’m not loud enough.”
In response, Disney claimed the film was taking a “different approach” to avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the 1937 animated classic. However, this explanation did little to ease the frustration of many who felt the changes were too far removed from the original story.
Zegler herself has been no stranger to controversy. In addition to facing backlash for her casting, she has also made headlines for her outspoken political views. The *West Side Story* star recently criticized those who voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 election and called the original *Snow White* film “extremely dated.” Zegler also took issue with the character’s traditional narrative, stating that her version of Snow White is “not going to be saved by the prince” and is instead focused on becoming a leader in her own right.
Meanwhile, Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, has also attracted attention for her views on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Zegler, too, has made her political stance known, even writing “free Palestine” on X (formerly Twitter) after the film’s first trailer was released. While Hollywood’s liberal leanings are hardly a secret, these outspoken political statements have only fueled the fire of discontent among conservative viewers who feel their voices are being ignored.
Despite the backlash, Zegler has tried to downplay the controversy, offering a more measured response in a recent interview with *Vogue Mexico*. “I interpret people’s feelings about this film as passion for it, and what an honor to be able to be a part of something that people are so passionate about,” Zegler said. “We’re not always going to have the same feelings as everyone around us and all we can do is give our best.”
While Disney pushes forward with the film, it’s clear that the company is facing significant challenges with *Snow White*. The choice to tone down the premiere is likely an acknowledgment of the mounting criticism, which seems unlikely to subside anytime soon. Disney’s attempt to inject a more “woke” narrative into its beloved classics may be alienating a large portion of its audience, leaving fans wondering if the studio has lost its way in the pursuit of progressive ideals.
