Diving Into the Magical World of ‘Snow White’ with Rachel Zegler

The First Look at Disney’s Live-Action Adaptation of ‘Snow White’

Disney has released the first photo of actor Rachel Zegler in the upcoming live-action adaptation of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”. The highly anticipated film, set to be released on October 28, 2023, showcases Zegler as the classic Disney princess alongside her beloved roommates. In the image, she is seen wearing the iconic blue and yellow dress, in a cozy cottage set in the woods.

The New Release Date

Variety confirms that the release date for the film has been pushed back nearly a year by the studio. Originally scheduled for March 22, 2024, the live-action adaptation of “Snow White” will now hit theaters on March 21, 2025. This delay has sparked much speculation and excitement among fans, who eagerly anticipate the modernization of the timeless fairytale.

Rachel Zegler’s Role as Snow White

Rachel Zegler, who rose to fame after her role in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 adaptation of “West Side Story,” has been cast as the fairytale princess Snow White. Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White is based on Disney’s first princess, who first appeared in the original 1937 animated film. The young actress is also set to star in the upcoming film adaptation of the “Hunger Games” prequel “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” as Lucy Gray Baird, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Gal Gadot as The Evil Queen

Joining Zegler in the cast is Gal Gadot, known for her role as Wonder Woman, who will take on the role of the mirror-consulting Evil Queen. In the story, the Evil Queen attempts to end Snow White’s life through various cunning schemes. Gadot’s involvement in the film is sure to bring a strong and dynamic presence to the character.

Rachel Zegler’s Comments and Criticism

Rachel Zegler’s comments regarding the original animated film have sparked considerable criticism. During her appearance at Disney Fan Club’s D23 Expo in September 2022, Zegler discussed the modernization of the classic story. She expressed that the new “Snow White” will focus on the princess’s journey to become a leader, rather than relying on a prince and true love.

However, Zegler’s comments were met with backlash, with some social media users accusing her of criticizing Disney princesses and undermining the importance of traditional femininity and female leadership. One TikTok video criticizing Zegler’s stance gained 10 million views, arguing that not all women aspire to be leaders and that it is not anti-feminist to embrace traditional notions of femininity.

Editorial and Advice

The release of the first look at Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Snow White” has ignited excitement and anticipation among fans of the beloved fairytale. The casting choices of Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as The Evil Queen have generated both praise and criticism.

It is crucial to remember that a modern retelling of a classic fairytale opens the door for reinterpretation and exploration of different themes and characterizations. While some fans may find it refreshing and empowering to have a Snow White who is focused on her own growth and leadership, others may value the traditional aspects of the story and find this departure less appealing.

However, it is important to approach these adaptations with an open mind and appreciate the artistry and creativity involved. Filmmakers have the right to reimagine stories and characters in a way that resonates with a contemporary audience. It allows for a broader range of perspectives and narratives to be represented on the screen.

As viewers, we have the opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions about the choices made in these adaptations and how they reflect societal values. These conversations should be respectful and considerate of different viewpoints, allowing for a deeper understanding of the diverse interpretations of these timeless stories.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether they embrace the new direction of “Snow White” or prefer the classic interpretation. The release of the film will provide an opportunity for audiences to form their own opinions and engage in discussions about the enduring impact of fairytales in our cultural imagination.