The film industry has always been rife with tales of controversies and rumours. Still, Rachel Zegler, the rising star set to bring Snow White to life in a live-action adaptation, was amidst a whirlwind of speculations. This came from her comments criticizing the original 1937 classic version of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” a creation by Walt Disney himself.
Zegler’s introduction to Hollywood began with a viral audition video 2017 for Steven Spielberg’s reimagining of “West Side Story.” Her portrayal of Maria in the movie left audiences and critics in awe, showcasing her natural talent and making it evident that she was not just another newcomer but a true force in the cinematic world.
However, success often brings with it a fair share of challenges. Zegler’s candid remarks about the iconic character of Snow White triggered debates, and rumours swirled about her possible exit from the project. These debates were fueled by Zegler’s revelations about significant departures from the original story, including the omission of the traditional dwarfs and Prince Charming. “I just mean that it’s no longer 1937,” she had commented, stating, “We wrote a ‘Snow White’ that … she’s not going to be saved by the prince, and she’s not going to be dreaming about true love; she’s going to be dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be and that her late father told her that she could be if she were fearless, fair, brave and true.” These changes even threatened the inclusion of Andrew Burnap’s character. Additionally, with the formidable Gal Godot cast as the Evil Queen, fans eagerly anticipated what this reimagined Snow White would bring.
Despite rumours suggesting Zegler’s removal, especially after news broke that she was no longer part of “Paddington 3”, there was no official confirmation from either Zegler or Disney. Addressing the situation with a dash of humour, Zegler recently tweeted, “The rumours are true 🙁 I am three apples tall,” showcasing her ability to engage with her fanbase and navigate controversies gracefully.
Disney, a behemoth in the entertainment industry, has always protected its brand. While the company has been lauded for its progressiveness, it has also faced criticism with claims of being overly “woke” and pushing “unnecessary diversity.” Films like “Strange World,” “Lightyear,” and “Turning Red” have been at the center of these debates. Fans argue that these movies introduce complex beliefs and ideas to young audiences.
As the story around Zegler’s Snow White adaptation unfolds, it serves as a testament to the ever-evolving dynamics of the film industry, reflecting changing societal values and the continuous dialogues they inspire.
