Snow White (2025)

Rating: 1 of 10 Stars

Disney's latest live-action remake, Snow White (2025), is a film that should have been a celebration of both timeless fantasy and modern storytelling. However, what could have been a nostalgic yet refreshing adaptation quickly becomes a disjointed, tone-deaf experience-one that misses the mark on almost every level.

The film's visual design is perhaps the most glaring issue. Despite the usual Disney budget and high-end special effects, Snow White feels strangely hollow. A notable critique is Rachel Zegler's costume, which has been widely compared to Lord Farquaad from Shrek. The simplistic, almost cartoonish design of Snow White's dress fails to convey the elegance and magic expected from the character. While the film is visually ambitious, it often feels more like an over-polished set piece rather than a heartfelt retelling of a beloved classic.

Another major misstep lies in Disney's casting of the seven dwarfs. In an era where representation is crucial, the decision to cast non-disabled actors and then digitally alter their appearances through CGI is an unfortunate and outdated choice. This decision not only feels tone-deaf but also ignores the opportunity to cast actors with dwarfism, further distancing the film from its intended audience and reinforcing the perception that Disney is out of touch with modern sensibilities.

No review of Snow White would be complete without addressing the significant controversy surrounding lead actress Rachel Zegler. Her outspoken comments on the original 1937 animated Snow White, combined with her politically charged public persona, have taken center stage in the film's reception. Instead of focusing on the story or the performances, the film's promotion has been overshadowed by Zegler's remarks, and it's clear that her presence has become a lightning rod for much of the backlash. It's difficult to ignore the sense that her involvement in the project has become emblematic of the film's overall disconnect with audiences.

Perhaps the most damaging aspect of Snow White is Disney's apparent loss of connection with its core audience. The film attempts to blend the charm of the original with modern sensibilities but ends up alienating nearly everyone in the process. For fans of the 1937 classic, the film's heavy-handed updates feel unnecessary and out of place, while the younger, more progressive crowd that might appreciate its political leanings seems equally uninterested in what the film is trying to say. Ultimately, the film fails to recapture the warmth and wonder that made Disney's animated films legendary.

There is at-least one dim light amidst the film's many shortcomings: Gal Gadot. As the Evil Queen, Gadot gives a performance that is, frankly, far too good for the film she's in. She brings a subtle gravitas to the role, "cardboard-ish" at times, but her natural charisma makes her the most compelling character in the film. It's a shame that her talents are wasted on such a flawed project, as it's clear that Gadot's presence is the only thing keeping the film remotely engaging. Her portrayal of the Evil Queen is one of the few redeeming elements in what otherwise feels like a missed opportunity.

In the end, Snow White (2025) is a film that should have been a celebration of Disney's legacy but ultimately feels like a tone-deaf cash grab. From its mismanaged costume designs to its exclusionary casting choices, the film is a textbook example of how modern sensibilities can sometimes clash with the very essence of what makes a story timeless. Despite some bright spots-most notably Gal Gadot's stellar performance-the film struggles to deliver on any level. With an IMDb score of 1.5, it's hard to imagine Snow White being remembered fondly, especially when it seems so out of touch with both its origins and its audience.

While Disney may have hoped for a nostalgic reimagining, Snow White stands as a stark reminder that in today's world, nostalgia alone isn't enough to carry a film. It requires heart, understanding, and, most importantly, a connection to the audience that has supported Disney for decades. Unfortunately, this remake fails on all those fronts. It's a single dim star from me.

I'm Rae Serbeck, I Watch and Review all Movies Large and Small!