Snow White (2025): A Box Office Disappointment for Disney?
Disney's live-action remake of Snow White, released in 2025, has concluded its theatrical run, and the results are less than enchanting. The film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, has been labeled one of Disney's worst-performing live-action remakes in nearly a decade, sparking discussions about the factors contributing to its disappointing box office figures.
Box Office Performance
Snow White grossed $205.5 million worldwide, falling short of expectations. While this figure surpasses the $69.9 million earned by Mulan (2020), which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a simultaneous streaming release, it lags behind other recent Disney live-action remakes. Pete's Dragon (2016), for instance, earned $143.7 million.
Comparison to Other Disney Remakes
The underperformance of Snow White contrasts sharply with the success of other Disney remakes. The Lion King (2019) and Beauty and the Beast both crossed the $1 billion mark, demonstrating the potential for these reimagined classics. Even Lilo and Stitch is performing well. The Lion King's prequel, Mufasa, garnered a solid $722.6 million.
Controversies and Criticisms
Snow White faced controversies prior to its release. Criticism stemmed from various factors, including casting choices and perceived deviations from the original animated film. Peter Dinklage also voiced concerns about the portrayal of the seven dwarfs.
Financial Implications
Forbes estimates that Snow White could result in a loss of over $115 million for Disney, considering the film's $269.4 million production budget and marketing costs. This financial setback raises questions about Disney's strategy for future live-action remakes.
Streaming Availability
Snow White is now available for streaming on Disney Plus. This provides audiences with an opportunity to view the film and form their own opinions, potentially reaching a wider audience beyond the theatrical release.