The anticipation surrounding Disney’s upcoming adaptation of Snow White live-action has been palpable. This ambitious project seeks to reimagine the beloved 1937 animated classic, blending a fresh cast with modern storytelling techniques. The film has sparked considerable excitement, as well as controversy, due to its casting choices and thematic revisions.
Here’s everything we know about the cast, release date, and controversies shaping this highly awaited film.
Who is starring in Snow White live action?
Disney’s Snow White live action is headlined by Rachel Zegler, a rising star celebrated for her role in West Side Story (2021). At just 23, Zegler steps into the iconic role of Snow White, bringing her distinct voice and cultural background to the character.
The Evil Queen is portrayed by Gal Gadot, renowned for her role as Wonder Woman. Gadot promises to deliver a nuanced performance, blending charm with malevolence.
The Seven Dwarfs, a cornerstone of the original tale, are also present but reimagined. Rather than casting actors with dwarfism, Disney opted for a mix of CGI and diverse actors, generating both acclaim and criticism.
Full cast
- Rachel Zegler: Snow White
- Gal Gadot: Evil Queen
- Colin Michael Carmichael: Farno
- Andrew Burnap: Jonathan
- Lorena Andrea: –
- Ansu Kabia: Huntsman
- Emilia Faucher: Young Snow White
- Lukus Alexander: Dancer
- Misa Koide: Dancer
- Luisa Guerreiro: Artisan 3
- Eddison Burch: Dancer
- Leon Ung: Dancer
- Dujonna Gift: Maple
- Jon-Scott Clark: Dancer
- Dean Nolan: Artisan 1
- Joshmaine Joseph: Guard Arthur
- Kat Collings: Dancer
- Daniel Lindqvist: Dancer
Release date
Mark your calendars for March 21, 2025, when Disney’s Snow White live action hits theaters worldwide. The release date underscores Disney’s strategic placement of the film in a prime spring slot, aiming to captivate audiences of all ages.
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Why was Rachel Zegler chosen as Snow White?
Director Marc Webb described Zegler as the perfect choice for Snow White, citing her “grace, balance, and inherent kindness.” Webb revealed that even the film’s script supervisor was moved to tears by Zegler’s vocal performance, particularly in the original song Waiting on a Wish, which highlights her determination to reclaim her kingdom.
Zegler herself has embraced the role, stating, “Snow White was my mother’s favorite princess”.
Why is the casting of Snow White controversial?
The casting of Zegler, an actress of Colombian descent, as Snow White sparked debates online. Critics argued that her ethnic background did not align with the character’s “skin as white as snow” description from the original story. Some fans even vowed to boycott the film.
Zegler, however, has defended her casting, pointing out the universality of Snow White’s appeal. She remarked, “Snow White belongs to everyone. Representation matters, and every child deserves to see themselves as the hero.”
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Gadot’s portrayal of the Evil Queen delves into the character’s psychological complexity. She shared at the D23 Expo, “I wanted her to be both deliciously wicked and compellingly human. The Queen’s obsession with beauty and her relationship with Snow White almost mirrors a twisted maternal dynamic.”
The duality Gadot brings to the role promises to redefine how audiences perceive Disney villains, making the Queen more than just an archetype of vanity.
What changes are being made to the Seven Dwarfs?
The portrayal of the Seven Dwarfs has been a focal point of controversy. Peter Dinklage, known for Game of Thrones, criticized Disney’s decision to revisit a story he considers outdated. He stated, “You’re progressive in one sense but still retelling a tale about seven dwarfs living in a cave. What are you doing?”
Disney responded by consulting with members of the dwarfism community and opting to use CGI characters to avoid reinforcing stereotypes. While this approach has its supporters, others argue it deprives actors with dwarfism of opportunities.
What is the new backstory for Snow White?
The live-action adaptation introduces a novel backstory for Snow White’s name. According to Zegler, her character earns the moniker after surviving a perilous snowstorm, symbolizing her resilience.
Zegler has openly critiqued the 1937 film’s narrative, calling aspects of the prince’s behavior “strange” and advocating for a modernized portrayal of female agency. She emphasized, “This isn’t about erasing love from the story but showing that women can pursue multiple dreams simultaneously.”
The updated storyline aims to empower young viewers, offering a multifaceted depiction of Snow White’s aspirations beyond romance.
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