Let’s be honest — the world didn’t want to like this movie.
From the moment Disney announced the live-action Snow White, the internet had already made up its mind. The backlash has been intense: people slammed the casting, criticised the creative changes, and labelled it “woke nonsense” before even seeing a trailer. Then came the headlines — critics are calling it a box office disaster, and some online have gone as far as to say it’s a “VHS movie” — you know, the kind we skipped at the video store growing up because it looked cheap.
But here’s the thing: I actually watched Snow White. I attended a pre-release screening, fully aware of the noise surrounding it. And I walked in not looking to hate it — but hoping to be surprised. And you know what? I was.
A fairy tale for a modern audience
This is not a remake. It’s a reimagining. And that’s an important distinction.
Disney clearly set out to retell Snow White for today’s world. This isn’t about clinging to the past or recreating 1937 beat for beat. It’s about asking what this story could mean to a generation growing up with different values and expectations.
There’s no Prince Charming. There’s a thief instead — part of a band of rebels fighting in the King’s name. And yes, that means there are new characters and dynamics that don’t exist in the original. Some of these choices (like the bandits’ costumes, which felt far too modern and jarring against the fairy tale world) didn’t land for me. But others absolutely did.
Snow White herself is quietly powerful
Rachel Zegler plays Snow White with restraint, kindness, and quiet courage. She isn’t waiting to be rescued. She isn’t yearning for love. She’s focused on reclaiming her kingdom, on being the leader her people need.
The original song “I’m Wishing” is gone, and with it the dreamy longing for a prince. This version of Snow White is about agency, not romance — and I think that’s a message children today will benefit from.
She represents hope, goodness, and belief in herself. For kids meeting her for the first time, she will be aspirational.
Gal Gadot’s Queen is wicked, regal, and wildly entertaining
Gal Gadot is having fun in this role — and it shows. She chews the scenery, delivering a version of the Evil Queen that’s glamorous, terrifying, and just a little unhinged.
Her costumes are especially gorgeous and clearly inspired by the original animation. She feels like a villain pulled straight from the pages of a dark fairy tale — dramatic, cruel, and unforgettable.
People are going to love to hate her.
Visually, it’s stunning
I have to talk about the aesthetic. The film has this ethereal, dreamy look that feels totally removed from the real world — and that’s a good thing. The lighting is soft and mystical, the settings rich and detailed.
It’s clear this world isn’t meant to feel real or historical. It’s a fairy tale. A gorgeous, painterly one.
There are moments so beautifully composed they reminded me of the work of Thomas Kinkade, the legendary painter of light known for his romantic, idealised portrayals of Disney scenes. In fact, one of his most iconic Snow White pieces — a cottage nestled in the woods with soft light pouring through the trees — immediately came to mind. I have one of his colouring books, and the resemblance in style was uncanny. These are the kinds of scenes that will be shared endlessly online, and rightly so.
Representation that feels right
Another thing that stood out: the film’s inclusion. The townspeople come in all shapes, sizes, races, and ages. The Huntsman is Black. Snow White isn’t white. And guess what? It works.
None of it felt forced or preachy. It just felt right. Like a fairy tale world that belongs to everyone.
Forget the headlines — make up your own mind
Yes, critics have been harsh. Yes, the box office projections might not be met. But should that stop you from seeing it? No.
I want to encourage people to see this with fresh eyes — especially if you have children in your life. Take them. Let them experience the magic firsthand. Let them decide who Snow White is.
Because at the end of the day, this is a film about kindness, bravery, and finding your voice. Those are timeless lessons worth revisiting.
Support cinemas. Share the magic.
We also need to talk about where we’re watching films… The cinema industry is still recovering post-COVID. Chains like Ster-Kinekor have gone into business rescue. People aren’t showing up the way they used to.
And that matters. Because seeing something like Snow White on the big screen? That’s how it was meant to be seen.
So make a day of it. Take your nieces, nephews, kids, or grandkids. Share popcorn. Laugh. Gasp. Be moved.
That’s what Disney does best. And for all its imperfections, Snow White delivers that.
