Disney’s handling of the live-action Snow White remake has raised concerns, particularly regarding how it has treated its young star, Rachel Zegler. In an attempt to manage growing backlash, Disney scaled back the film’s premiere by holding a red carpet event without journalists. This move seemed designed to protect the brand rather than the cast, with Zegler, alongside co-star Gal Gadot, facing criticism. Many have taken issue with Zegler’s comments about the original film’s outdated themes, as she focused on modernizing the character. The online backlash also reflects a broader debate over the “wokeness” of Disney’s live-action remakes, with some accusing the company of prioritizing diversity over the classic essence of the original films.
The Backlash and “Wokeness” Debate
Zegler’s remarks about the original Snow White being “extremely dated” sparked significant controversy. Her desire to create a more empowered version of the princess has been met with resistance from those who believe Disney should remain faithful to its classic stories. This mirrors the outrage that followed Halle Bailey’s casting as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, where critics targeted Disney’s diversity-driven choices rather than the films themselves.
Disney’s Conservative Strategy
Disney’s continued reliance on nostalgic remakes has led to a stifling of creativity, creating unrealistic expectations for young stars like Zegler. The company’s safe, market-driven approach alienates both traditionalists and progressive audiences, ultimately undermining the success of its remakes and the potential of emerging talent.
