A visually dazzling fairytale that lacks magic

THE 1937 animated musical fantasy Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a classic based on the Brothers Grimm's fairy tale, which was written over 200 years ago. Some stories, on account of being a product of their time, might not age well. However, when such a film is remade almost a century later, as a live-action feature, it holds the responsibility to resonate with modern audiences.

- JAYABHUVANESHWARI B

Disney, despite facing controversies throughout the making of the film, has taken a bold approach to reimagining Snow White for contemporary times—starting with the removal of 'dwarfs' from both the title and the narrative. Yet, despite its efforts to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, the film ultimately falls short of creating a refreshing and relevant remake.

It is 2025, so Snow White (Rachel Zegler) is not named after her skin colour but because she weathered a snowstorm as she was delivered. In this modern retelling, fairness refers to impartiality and justice, not complexion. Here, the princess is driven by a desire to save her kingdom and its people, rather than waiting for a man to rescue her. Politically and conceptually, Disney gets it right with this live-action adaptation of Snow White. In fact, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap), who plays Snow White's love interest, says, "You must've mistaken me for a knight in shining armour," to which she replies, "No one's making that mistake."