The new Snow White movie has recently hit theaters and viewers have mixed feelings about it. Disney fans are critical of the actors, costumes and plot changes. However, the storyline portrays potentially beneficial messages.
The costumes and appearances of the characters vary widely, with some critics commenting on Snow White’s (played by Rachel Zegler) hairstyle, claiming that it does not suit the actress and that it could have been executed much better. “Snow White’s hair and outfits were not what I was expecting. It reminds me of Lord Farquad from Shrek. In my opinion, her hair should exude elegance and hers could be better,” said Junior Isabella Sels.
In contrast, the evil queen’s (played by Gal Gadot) costume was praised. The detail and shimmer of her outfit is exemplary compared to the other costumes. While the evil queen is one of the main characters, one would expect that Snow White’s costume would be the star of the movie. After all, she is supposed to be a princess.
Additionally, some of the portrayals of characters have created controversy. Originally, there were supposed to be real actors for the dwarves. However, due to the controversy, Disney ultimately decided to use CGI to make the characters. When viewers think of the original dwarves from the first Snow White movie, they typically imagine cute, friendly dwarves. The live action CGI dwarves don’t fit this description. The CGI shows their age more, making them seem less youthful and innocent. While making realistic dwarves may be a challenge, the result disappointed some Disney fans.
One surprising criticism faced with the actors and actresses was the execution of Gadot’s role as the evil queen. Many fans were less than impressed by her vocals. In contrast, some fans found her vocals fitting for the role, especially considering that she only has a few singing parts.
Instead of including a Prince Charming like the original movie, the new love interest is a rugged bandit. Rather than instant love from the Prince hearing Snow White sing, Andrew Burnap (the love interest) falls for Snow White for her character and determined mindset to always do what is right. This is a twist to showcase the significance of falling in love for a person’s character, instead of their physical appearance. Many Disney movies involve love at first sight, so the newfound approach of love in the Snow White remake advocates for deeper, not surface-level romantic relationships.
One influential component to the updated storyline is the implementation of Snow White’s parents at the beginning of the movie. Rather than the evil woman being a stranger to Snow White, she is her step mother in the film. She is treated poorly by her stepmother, similar to Cinderella in the aspect of her forcing Snow White to clean and do many chores in clothing similar to rags.
There are many new changes to the plotline beyond the parents component. They also introduce new characters, such as the bandits and queen’s guards. However, these additions are facing criticism. “The new Snow White movie is slightly insulting to the original movie. The original is so much better,” commented junior Elsa Dais.
Some of the additions introduce a new side to the story. Dopey’s story deepens when he finally has a voice. Snow White’s character encourages Dopey to express himself. Additionally, Snow White teaches the dwarves how to clean, rather than cooking and cleaning for them as she does in the original film. These elements encourage more expression and contest traditional gender roles.
The strong female characters portray women’s roles to be more prominent than in the original movie. After the evil queen is banished, Snow White claims her throne and castle, ultimately making her a strong female character. Additionally, the magic mirror says Snow White is the fairest of them all after she sets Jonathan free and gives him bread. Calling her fair beyond her beauty, but also her heart.
Overall, the additions to the plot offer a more developed backstory for Snow White than the original. But, some of these components detract from the main story and executions are heavily criticized. While Disney fans may be curious about the new Snow White movie, the original is significantly more praised and recommended.
