Snow White (2025) Review

Disney’s latest live-action remake, Snow White, directed by Marc Webb, is more than just a nostalgic rehash of its 1937 predecessor; it’s a bold adaptation that strives to enrich its narrative and highlight a heroine with depth and resilience. Led by the mesmerizing Rachel Zegler, this retelling manages to balance homage with innovation, moving beyond mere nostalgia into a new realm of storytelling.

A New Perspective on an Old Favorite

From its very first moments, Snow White establishes itself with an original opening song that introduces viewers to a vibrant cast of characters and a whimsical kingdom. This is a Snow White portrayed by Zegler as a character deeply committed to kindness, a value that faces immense challenges following her mother’s passing and the subsequent marriage of her father to the malevolent Evil Queen (Gal Gadot). The original narrative around vanity is broadened, with the Queen’s obsession with being “the fairest one of all” morphing into a more nuanced exploration of compassion and moral character.

As the story unfolds, we see Snow White’s compassion tested when she extends kindness to a dashing yet cynical bandit leader, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap). This moment not only alters her fate but also sets the stage for a rich and untraditional romantic arc that deviates from the typical prince-saving-the-damsel trope. Rather than relying on tired clichés, this rendition weaves in a modern narrative that gives both the lead and supporting characters room to grow.

Musical Elements and Story Expansion

Clocking in at 109 minutes, the film takes its time to develop a fuller story—something many Disney remakes have struggled with. With additional musical numbers, many of which expand upon the original soundtrack, Snow White leans into its Broadway-friendly atmosphere. These arrangements, while invigorating, can lead to some uneven pacing, partially due to an awkward attempt to introduce the Dwarfs in an expanded version of “Heigh-Ho.”

Unfortunately, not all elements hit the mark. Gadot’s portrayal of the Evil Queen, while visually compelling, falls short in musical delivery, reflecting a disconnect between a character meant to embody operatic flair and her less-than-stellar vocal performance. Yet, Zegler shines, bringing emotional depth and a sense of bravery that feels authentic, reminiscent of classic Disney heroines but firmly rooted in contemporary ideals.

Visuals: A Mixed Bag

Visually, the film is a mixed bag. Though some may appreciate the whimsical charm of its CGI animals, the Dwarfs, often critiqued for their uncanny appearances, remain an odd blend of charming and unsettling. The costuming too suffers at times, lacking the polish one might expect from a Disney production. Webb’s ability to craft contrasting atmospheres—drawing parallels between the dark reign of the Queen and the kingdom’s previous vibrance—could have benefitted from a more distinct visual palette. The whimsical fantastical elements, however, do breathe life into moments of action, particularly during Snow White’s escape to the woods.

Rich Characters Amidst Crowded Storylines

While the introduction of Jonathan’s band of rebels adds complexity, the film risks feeling overcrowded as it juggles numerous characters and arcs. The presence of a human character with dwarfism adds a progressive touch, but intertwining real-world issues with fantasy can feel clunky at times. However, despite these challenges, Zegler firmly grounds the narrative, offering a Snow White who is thoughtful and self-aware, making her appeals for kindness resonate throughout the story.