Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White is set to hit UK cinemas next week, adding to the studio’s efforts to revive classic animations.
However, the film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, has encountered several controversies during its production.
One of the major debates centers around the depiction of the seven dwarfs, with some actors criticizing Disney’s decision to use CGI rather than casting actors with dwarfism.
The controversy initially gained attention in 2022 when Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage called the retelling of “seven dwarfs living in a cave” a backward concept.
Disney responded by stating they aimed to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and consulted with members of the dwarf community before deciding on CGI representations.
However, actors with dwarfism, such as Choon Tan and Blake Johnston, have since expressed disappointment, arguing that Disney’s decision deprived them of valuable acting opportunities.
The film’s European premiere took place in a remote castle in Northern Spain rather than the high-profile Leicester Square in London.
Rachel Zegler performed Waiting on a Wish at the event, though media access was limited.
The Los Angeles premiere is also expected to be relatively low-key, with journalists not invited to the red carpet, limiting interview opportunities for the cast and filmmakers.
Aside from the dwarfism debate, the film has faced backlash over Zegler’s casting.
Some critics questioned whether a Latina actress should portray a character traditionally described as having “skin as white as snow,” despite Disney’s push for more diverse representation.
Similar criticism arose when Halle Bailey, a Black actress, was cast as Ariel in The Little Mermaid. Both actresses faced online abuse following their casting announcements.
Zegler also sparked debate when she criticized the original 1937 animated film, describing its focus on Snow White’s love story as outdated and problematic.
She emphasized that the live-action version takes a different approach, with Snow White being portrayed as a more independent character.
Her remarks fueled further discussion, with some fans accusing the remake of prioritizing political correctness over nostalgia.
Adding to the speculation, rumors circulated about potential tensions between Zegler and Gadot due to their opposing political views on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Zegler has publicly supported Palestine, while Gadot, an Israeli actress, served in the Israeli army.
Despite these rumors, the two have made joint public appearances, including presenting an award together at the Oscars.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs joins a long list of Disney’s live-action adaptations, following Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid.
With a reported budget of £217 million, the film faces both high expectations and significant scrutiny ahead of its release.
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