Disney’s “Snow White” Remake: Critics Unleash a Flurry of Discontent Amid Slow Opening Weekend
Walt Disney Studios’ new live-action adaptation of “Snow White” has stumbled out of the gate with a disappointing opening weekend, garnering less than favorable reviews from critics. With projections that suggest this film might achieve the lowest box office numbers among Disney’s cherished lineup of live-action remakes, it’s clear that this retelling of a beloved classic is facing mountains of criticism.
A Lackluster Opening Weekend
As audiences flocked to theaters, “Snow White” failed to captivate the box office, with estimates indicating earnings of around $43 million over the weekend. This figure places it squarely beneath the dismal performance of the 2019 remake of “Dumbo,” which earlier held the title for Disney’s lowest live-action remake with $46 million. Given its staggering production cost of $270 million, industry insiders are already dubbing it a potential box-office bomb, likely to surpass “Dumbo” in ignominy.
Critical Reception: A Chorus of Disapproval
While audiences have shown a somewhat kinder disposition, reflected in a 74% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, critics have not held back their disdain. The film’s current critics score sits at a disheartening 44%. Renowned film critics have torn into the production:
- David Fear from Rolling Stone accused the film of being a somnolent experience, quipping that it might serve well as a bedtime story, effectively putting viewers to sleep.
- Manohla Dargis, chief critic for The New York Times, offered a rather tepid assessment, noting that “it’s neither good enough to admire nor bad enough to joyfully skewer; its mediocrity is among its biggest bummers.”
- The Boston Globe’s Odie Henderson shared his disappointment, stating, “This dopey remake made me sleepy and grumpy,” after entering the theater with high hopes.
- Lastly, Wendy Ide from The Guardian went so far as to label the film “toe-curlingly terrible,” describing it as “a bamboo splinters under the fingernails viewing experience.”
The Controversies Surrounding “Snow White”
The film’s turbulent journey to release may have contributed significantly to its shaky reception. Over three years of production laden with controversies, including Disney’s evolving depiction of the film’s dwarfs and lead actress Rachel Zegler’s controversial comments on the original film’s themes, have overshadowed its release. Zegler’s past public statements and criticism of certain audience segments may have further alienated potential viewers.
An Industry in Turmoil
Film critic Christian Toto highlighted the chaotic media management surrounding the film’s release, stating, “The film’s perfect storm of media mismanagement has led to its box office hopes being blunted dramatically.” In an industry that thrives on audience connection, this disconnection could explain the film’s anemic performance.
The Bottom Line: A Cinderella Story Gone Wrong
As Disney’s latest attempt to revive classic tales stumbles under the scrutiny of critics and audiences alike, it serves as a cautionary tale about modern adaptations of beloved stories. With so much riding on the film’s success, the industry must reflect on whether the magic of Disney storytelling can still resonate in today’s cinematic landscape.
For fans eager to witness this adaptation for themselves, the question remains: does the new “Snow White” bring fresh magic, or should it have remained a cherished classic? As further reviews and audience reactions pour in, the fate of this ambitious remake hangs in the balance.
Have you seen Disney’s “Snow White”? What are your thoughts? Join the conversation below!
