Disney is about to host a Hollywood premiere for its upcoming “Snow White” film on March 15, however the event will likely be significantly more low-key than the studio’s typical star-studded celebrations.
The premiere, happening on the El Capitan Theatre, will include a pre-party and screening, with lead actress Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, who portrays the Evil Queen, expected to attend. Nonetheless, in a departure from Disney’s usual red carpet spectacles, media coverage will likely be notably limited.
As an alternative of inviting dozens of press outlets to interview the forged and filmmakers, Disney will only allow photographers and an in-house crew to capture the “Snow White” event.
Article continues below commercial
Disney’s ‘Snow White’ Faces Backlash Over Casting And Modernized Storyline Ahead Of Release
The studio has not provided an official comment regarding the choice, however the scaled-back approach comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding the Marc Webb-directed film, which is about for theatrical release on March 21, in line with Variety.
Since its announcement, “Snow White” has faced backlash on multiple fronts. Some Disney fans took issue with Zegler’s casting as the enduring princess, questioning the choice to forged a Latina actress within the role. The “West Side Story” star also drew criticism for comments in regards to the 1937 animated classic, calling it “dated” and criticizing the unique storyline through which the prince “literally stalks Snow White.”
Article continues below commercial
In a 2022 interview with Variety at D23, Zegler emphasized the film’s modernized approach to the character. “She’s not going to be saved by the prince. She’s not going to be dreaming about true love. She’s dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she could be.”
Article continues below commercial
Peter Dinklage Criticizes The Movie For Reinforcing Stereotypes
The film also faced criticism from actor Peter Dinklage, who called out the story’s portrayal of little people, arguing that it still perpetuates outdated stereotypes.
“Literally no offense to anything, but I used to be kind of shocked,” Dinklage said on the “WTF With Marc Maron” podcast in January 2024. “They were very proud to forged a Latino actress as Snow White, but you’re still telling the story of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.’ Take a step back and take a look at what you’re doing there.”
Following Dinklage’s remarks, Disney responded in a press release to “Good Morning America,” saying, “To avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the unique animated film, we’re taking a distinct approach with these seven characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community.”
Article continues below commercial
Rachel Zegler Addresses ‘Snow White’ Backlash As Political Divide Draws Attention To Film’s Stars
As Disney’s “Snow White” remake faces continued scrutiny, lead actress Zegler is responding to the backlash, attributing much of the controversy to fans’ strong attachment to the unique film.
“I interpret people’s sentiments towards this film as passion,” Zegler said in an interview featured within the March issue of Vogue Mexico. “What an honor to be a component of something that individuals feel so passionately about. We’re not at all times going to agree with everyone who surrounds us and all we will do is our greatest.”
Beyond the film itself, outside political issues have also drawn attention to its leading actresses. Zegler has been vocal on social media in support of “free Palestine,” while her co-star, Israeli actress Gal Gadot, has change into an outspoken supporter of Israel.
Article continues below commercial
Gal Gadot Speaks Out On Global Reactions To Hamas Attack As Political Tensions Surround ‘Snow White’ Stars
Gadot recently addressed the conflict in a speech on the Anti-Defamation League’s annual summit in Latest York City on March 4, where she condemned global reactions following the October 7 Hamas attack.
“Never did I imagine that on the streets of the US, and different cities world wide, we’d see people not condemning Hamas, but celebrating, justifying and cheering on a massacre of Jews,” Gadot said on the time.
Historically, Gadot has avoided political commentary, but she has stated that recent events compelled her to talk up.
Political Tensions In Hollywood Escalate Amid Film Boycotts
The increasing political divide surrounding Hollywood has also made its way into other movies. In February, pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the “Captain America: Brave Latest World” premiere, calling for a boycott as a consequence of the inclusion of Israeli superhero Ruth Bat-Seraph (Sabra), played by Israeli actress Shira Haas.
Meanwhile, Zegler has faced criticism from MAGA supporters for her response to Donald Trump’s re-election. Shortly after the election results, she posted on Instagram, “May Trump supporters and Trump voters and Trump himself never know peace.” She later issued an apology two days later.
