Disney’s much-anticipated live-action remake of Snow White has faced a rocky reception since its release, and it’s now becoming clear that the film’s modern, “woke” take on the classic fairy tale is failing to captivate UK audiences.
Empty Seats and Disappointing Box Office Numbers
The film, which stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White, is receiving backlash from many viewers who have expressed their disappointment through social media.
Numerous videos have surfaced showing almost empty theaters at screenings across several UK cities.
For instance, a viewing in London’s Leicester Square, known for attracting both tourists and locals, has only 17 tickets sold for the 4:45 PM showing.
As the evening approaches, things don’t get much better—only 26 seats have been booked for the 7:30 PM slot.
In Manchester’s Vue Printworks, the situation is even worse with just four tickets sold for a 4 PM screening, and no viewers expected for the 7:45 PM showing.
A New Take on the Classic Tale Sparks Controversy
The film’s underwhelming performance is largely attributed to its major departures from the original.
The absence of the iconic Someday My Prince Will Come song, along with changes to the storyline, has sparked widespread criticism.
Rachel Zegler, who portrays the titular character, faced a wave of backlash after calling the 1937 animated classic “weird” and “extremely dated.”
She commented that the film’s portrayal of Snow White’s relationship with the prince—who she describes as “literally stalking” her—was problematic.
Instead of a prince, the new Snow White falls for Jonathan, the leader of a group of thieves, and doesn’t wait for him to rescue her, although he does rouse her from the dead with a kiss.
Struggles at the Box Office and International Reaction
Despite high expectations for its opening weekend, the film grossed $87 million globally—falling short of its projected $100 million target.
With such a result, Snow White is now seen as a “bomb” compared to other live-action remakes Disney has released in recent years.
In Liverpool, the 4:40 PM screening at Odeon’s Liverpool One cinema had just five tickets sold, with only a modest increase to 14 tickets for the 8 PM showing.
Similarly, in Birmingham, the Odeon cinema saw only eight tickets sold for the 5:30 PM viewing, and six tickets for the 7:10 PM showing.
The Outcry Over the Film’s ‘Woke’ Elements
Criticism has also been directed at Disney’s attempts to reimagine characters to reflect contemporary sensibilities.
One of the most contentious changes was the replacement of the traditional dwarfs with CGI-created “magical creatures.”
This decision has angered many, particularly those advocating for the inclusion of little people in film.
Some have accused Disney of overcompensating in its efforts to be inclusive, with Brian Viner of The Mail calling the movie a “painfully muddle-headed affair” and noting that Disney’s attempts not to offend anyone ended up offending everyone.
Backlash in China and Beyond
The film’s struggles aren’t limited to the UK. In mainland China, the movie performed poorly, ranking outside the top five films at the box office and grossing less than $1 million (£800,000) during its first three days of release.
Adding fuel to the fire, some viewers in China have criticized the casting of Rachel Zegler, who is of Colombian and Polish descent, in the role of the traditionally “white” Snow White.
Furthermore, Gal Gadot’s portrayal of the Evil Queen has sparked boycotts due to her past as a soldier in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), which has led to controversy, particularly in the Arab world.
Internal Discontent at Disney
Even within Disney, there have been reports of internal frustration regarding the film’s direction.
According to an anonymous insider, Zegler’s outspoken remarks about the original Snow White animation have caused tension, with some reportedly calling her “out of control.”
As the film continues to receive negative press, it remains to be seen whether Disney will address these controversies.
What’s Next for Snow White?
With its troubled reception in cinemas and divisive take on a beloved fairy tale, Snow White is facing a difficult road ahead.
As the film struggles to make an impact, it raises questions about how future remakes of classic stories will balance modern sensibilities with the expectations of audiences.
Only time will tell if Disney can turn things around.