Disney’s latest live-action spectacle, Snow White, enchanting audiences since its theatrical release on March 21, 2025, attempts to breathe new life into one of the most beloved fairy tales of all time. Directed by the visionary Marc Webb, known for his work on "The Amazing Spider-Man" films and "500 Days of Summer," this musical fantasy production from Walt Disney Pictures and Marc Platt Productions features a screenplay crafted by the talented duo of Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson. Starring the luminous Rachel Zegler as the titular princess and the formidable Gal Gadot as the nefarious Evil Queen, the film also introduces a new male lead, Jonathan, played by Andrew Burnap, leader of a band of bandits.
Genre:Adventure, Family, Fantasy, Musical, Romance
This 2025 adaptation follows the familiar yet modernized journey of Snow White, a princess confined to her palace and forced into servitude by her vain and tyrannical stepmother, the Evil Queen. When the Magic Mirror declares Snow White "the fairest one of all," the Queen orders her death, forcing Snow White to flee into the forest where she encounters seven "magical beings" working in a diamond mine. The film aims to honor the legacy of its animated predecessor while injecting contemporary themes and visual flair.
The original "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937) was a groundbreaking cinematic achievement, Walt Disney’s first full-length animated feature. It was a critical and commercial triumph, nominated for an Academy Award for Best Musical Score, and later honored with a special Oscar for Walt Disney himself. It set the standard for animated storytelling, enchanting generations with its timeless narrative and iconic characters. Fast forward to today, Disney's strategy of live-action remakes has seen mixed results, with some like "The Jungle Book" (2016) and "Cinderella" (2015) achieving critical acclaim and box office success, while others have faced accusations of being mere "cash grabs" relying on nostalgia. The reception for these adaptations has become increasingly divisive, with critics often pointing to a perceived lack of originality or the flattening of exaggerated, magical elements when translated into photorealistic CGI. "Snow White" (2025) enters this contested landscape, facing the challenge of justifying its existence beyond its predecessor's enduring charm.
A Dazzling Visuals and a Standout Princess
From a visual standpoint, "Snow White" is undeniably dazzling, showcasing high-quality visual effects and production values that bring the fairy tale world to life. However, some critics note a "CGI-heavy" aesthetic that gives the entire film an "artificial sheen," occasionally detracting from the sense of grounded realism found in some of Disney’s earlier live-action ventures. While the film’s fantasy elements are beautifully rendered, the interaction between live actors and digital characters sometimes pulls the viewer out of the narrative.
At the heart of this live-action movie is Rachel Zegler's performance as Snow White, which has been widely praised as an "absolute highlight." Zegler brings a fresh, vibrant energy to the role, embodying a "fearless and pure-hearted princess" determined to free her kingdom from tyranny. Her musical talents are showcased, proving her a "perfect fit for musicals," and she delivers a performance that will undoubtedly thrill her fans. Her portrayal attempts to redefine Snow White for a modern audience, focusing on self-discovery and empowerment.
Gal Gadot steps into the formidable shoes of the Evil Queen, relishing the character's nastiness. She is imposing in her dark, shimmering gown and handles her musical number with decent vocals. However, some reviews suggest that despite Gadot's efforts, the villain ultimately "falls flat" due to being "underwritten." The script, it seems, doesn't quite allow her to achieve the full "camp status" that could have made the character truly memorable or menacing, leaving the Evil Queen feeling less impactful than her animated counterpart.
Modernization and its Repercussions
"Snow White" (2025) makes conscious efforts to modernize the classic narrative, most notably by introducing Jonathan as a prominent male lead, and by referring to the traditional dwarfs as "seven magical beings." These changes, while attempting to update the fairy tale for contemporary sensibilities, have drawn mixed reactions. Some critics found the shift from dwarfs to "magical beings" to be a creative choice that, at times, felt jarring due to the CGI portrayal, making them appear "creepy and superimposed into every shot." While characters like Dopey are noted for their "wide-eyed innocence," the overall effect of the digital characters can disrupt the film's immersion.
The plot, while largely adhering to the core story, incorporates new elements, such as Snow White’s connection with Jonathan and her active role in defying the Queen. Themes of self-discovery and resilience are more overtly explored, aiming to resonate with a Gen Z audience that values agency and breaking traditional molds. However, some of these narrative additions have been deemed "unnecessary" by parts of the audience and critics, contributing to a sense that the story is at times "cluttered" or "dull and unexciting."
The film’s attempt to create a more empowered Snow White, while commendable, leads to a final act that, despite being "true to Snow White’s characterization," is described as "anticlimactic and a touch too saccharine." For those who are already "exhausted by Disney’s CGI-heavy remakes," the film might not offer enough "spark" to win them over, ultimately feeling like another addition to a trend that prioritizes commercial success through nostalgia over genuine artistic innovation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Snow White" (2025) is a visually ambitious musical fantasy that benefits greatly from Rachel Zegler's captivating performance. As a live-action adaptation of a beloved classic, it navigates the tricky waters of modernization with mixed success. While it delivers on its promise of dazzling visuals and attempts to inject contemporary relevance, some of its stylistic choices and narrative adjustments may not fully satisfy all viewers, particularly those longing for the charm and simplicity of the original.
Despite its criticisms, the film showcases Disney's continued efforts to reimagine its animated library for a new generation. For fans of Rachel Zegler and those looking for a visually rich 2025 film experience, "Snow White" offers moments of genuine enchantment. However, for a broader audience seeking a fresh and profoundly impactful retelling, the movie review consensus suggests that while it is far from Disney's worst effort, it leaves a desire for a bit more magic beyond the CGI and star power. Whether seen in theaters or via streaming later this year, "Snow White" (2025) remains a significant entry in Disney's ongoing live-action portfolio, prompting reflection on the balance between honoring tradition and embracing modern storytelling.