‘Snow White’ Movie Review: Disney’s Latest Live-Action Entry Delivers A Satisfying Bite Of The Apple
Photo from Disney
From Joe Peltzer
Much ado has been made about Snow White, even before it had been seen by anyone whatsoever. From Rachel Zegler’s comments that hinted towards major plot changes to Gal Gadot’s unwavering support of Israel in the current international conflict, plus the switch of the Seven Dwarfs to “magical creatures,” the internet was abuzz with criticisms. So it comes as a great surprise that this updated adventure is ripe with savvy story updates, vibrant songs, and enlivened performances that (almost) make you forgive the unsightly, yet delightful CGI squad of seven. It’s true, Snow White is one of Disney’s better live-action adaptations.
A slightly enhanced adaptation of the 1937 animated classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Marc Webb’s film, directed from a script by Erin Cressida Wilson (The Girl on the Train) follows the titular character (played by Rachel Zegler) as she mounts an offensive to retake the kingdom from the Evil Queen (played by Gal Gadot). Of course this is also a story of bravery, true love, and a magical forest (and apples). Zegler herself is pitch perfect as Snow White, breathing new life into the fan-favorite character that showcases her strength and inspirational nature for those she comes in contact with. She quarterbacks a battle of Good (a royal family who cares for the people) vs. Evil (a singular force who is obsessed with her powerful beauty and jewels). Opposite Gadot, she encapsulates what it means to be a Disney Princess. Gadot for her part is serviceable, limited in lines (with the exception of one song that isn’t half bad) and given a simplistic presence that suits her talents, although there is a forced line or two that force the eyes to roll. Andrew Burnap rounds out the top three stars, here playing the bandit Jonathan and, while I didn’t love the arc of the ragtag group of rebels, his character grew on me as the film went on due to his chemistry with Zegler.
Which brings us to the “magical creatures.” Look, I had the same reaction as a vast majority of you did, questioning the design and not exactly loving how deeply CGI-reliant the film was on them. What I will say is that the seven unique characters are truly a delight, especially Dopey (arguably the secondary heart of the film). Sure, they’re a bit messy, but I dare you not to crack a smile when “Heigh-Ho” starts to permeate the theater. This is Disney magic. In fact, the entire soundtrack to the film provides ample opportunity for show-stopping numbers and the film certainly delivers. “Good Things Grow” will immediately give it away that The Greatest Showman’s Benj Pasek and Justin Paul wrote the music, the upbeat tune reminiscent of previous works of the duo, but quite the jubilant affair. Zegler takes their ballad “Waiting on a Wish” and makes a case for an all-timer for the Disney music vaults, while “Princess Problems” brings the laughs and “A Hand Meets a Hand” brings the feels.
Where Snow White falters is not in the fact that it is a live-action adaptation (I, for one, enjoy them), but in that the production simply feels small in scale. The costuming is stunning for the stars, yet limited for the rest of the cast . The sets are dynamic, yet redundantly used (cottage, castle, small village of maybe 30?). In terms of the pacing, the film hits a sluggish crawl for a good twenty minutes before the third act that took me out of the magic a bit. It’s fun, but it’s also safe.
In the end, Snow White will delight Disney fans primarily and serve as a wholesome outing for families upon release. If you love the live-action adaptations, you’ll be satisfied here. If you are going into it after railing on Disney for their previous live-action entries and expecting something different, read the room. One thing is undeniable, however… Rachel Zegler as Snow White is perfection.
Rating: 3.5/5
Snow White hits theaters on March 21st, 2025.
