Staff Reports
Disney’s latest live-action remake, Snow White, has stumbled out of the gate with a modest box office projection of $45-55 million for its opening weekend. The film, starring Rachel Zegler as the titular character, has been mired in controversy since its inception, with early reactions ranging from lukewarm to critical.
The remake has faced numerous challenges, including backlash over Zegler’s casting and her comments about the original story’s outdated elements. Peter Dinklage’s criticism of the depiction of dwarfs in the original tale led Disney to replace the seven dwarfs with CGI magical creatures, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike.
Despite the controversies, some early viewers have praised Zegler’s performance, with one critic describing her as “a shining supernova” who beautifully embodies the character. However, the overall reception has been polarized, with some calling the film “pure Disney magic” while others label it “exhaustingly awful.”
The film’s attempts to modernize the classic story have not been universally well-received, with some viewers criticizing the decision to remove Prince Charming and alter key elements of the original tale. The CGI dwarfs have been a particular point of contention, with many feeling that the change detracts from the charm of the original story.
As the film prepares for wide release, it remains to be seen whether it can overcome its rocky start and win over audiences. With its hefty production budget exceeding $250 million, Snow White will need to maintain a strong presence in theaters to justify its cost. The mixed reactions and controversies surrounding the film have certainly generated buzz, but whether that will translate into box office success is yet to be determined.
