Disney’s Live-Action Snow White Launches Strong Amidst Controversy

Disney’s latest live-action adaptation of *Snow White* is making a promising debut at the domestic box office, despite facing significant controversy that has shadowed its release.

Impressive Box Office Performance

The film garnered an impressive $3.5 million during Thursday previews, surpassing previous live-action adaptations like *Cinderella* and *Dumbo* in terms of initial earnings (figures are not adjusted for inflation). It is also closely trailing Universal’s *Kung Fu Panda 4*, which brought in $3.8 million.

If these early numbers are indicative of ongoing interest, the film is well on its way to achieving a domestic gross of over $50 million. On a global scale, projections suggest it may surpass the $100 million mark, despite receiving a lukewarm reception on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of just 46%. Notably, Jon Favreau’s *The Lion King* also achieved box office success with a mere 51% rating from critics.

Controversial Background

However, *Snow White* arrives with a complicated history. The production faced multiple delays and significant public criticism, notably regarding the casting of Rachel Zegler in the titular role—largely due to her Colombian heritage. Further complicating matters, Zegler has openly supported the Palestinian cause, which has created additional scrutiny. Her co-star, Gal Gadot, playing the Evil Queen, has received backlash for her comments about the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Audience Enthusiasm and Competition Landscape

Despite these challenges, awareness and anticipation for the film remain strong, particularly among female viewers and families. Importantly, *Snow White* is set to face little immediate competition and will be shown in all 400 IMAX theaters, as well as numerous other premium large-format venues—an advantage that typically boosts a film’s performance.

Comparative Box Office Insights

When compared to other Disney live-action princess films, *Beauty and the Beast* had an extraordinary opening with $174.6 million in March 2017 (unadjusted for inflation). Similarly, *Cinderella* opened to $67.9 million in 2015, while *Maleficent* debuted with $69 million in 2014, although its sequel, *Maleficent: Mistress of Evil*, didn’t fare as well, earning just $37 million.

Generational Recognition of Snow White

Although *Snow White* holds a significant place in Disney history—being one of the earliest animated films at nearly 100 years old—it is less recognized among younger audiences than other princesses. For perspective, *Beauty and the Beast* and *Cinderella* have been generational favorites; the animated version of *Beauty and the Beast* was released in 1991 and *Cinderella* has been beloved since its theatrical debut in 1950.

Conclusion

The journey of *Snow White* has not been without hurdles, experiencing numerous delays primarily due to the pandemic and labor strikes, yet it is now rolling out in virtually all global markets, except a few Middle Eastern regions during Ramadan. As the film continues its launch, further updates are anticipated.

For more information, visit the Hollywood Reporter.