Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remake of the classic tale, Snow White, is stirring considerable controversy even before its release. With the trailer garnering a staggering 1.4 million dislikes against just 100,000 likes, the audience’s disapproval is palpable. The film, which is set to hit theaters in March, features Rachel Zegler in the titular role, and her portrayal has sparked significant debate among viewers and critics alike.

The backlash against the trailer centers on Zegler’s performance, which many critics argue deviates from the traditional character traits associated with Snow White. Instead of embodying the innocence and vulnerability that fans have come to expect, Zegler’s interpretation appears more self-assured and confident. This shift has led to concerns that the emotional depth and stakes of the beloved story may be compromised.

As the trailer has been viewed over 11 million times, the stark contrast between the number of likes and dislikes has raised eyebrows. Critics have taken to social media to express their thoughts, with many describing the trailer as forced and artificial. The use of CGI has also been a focal point of criticism, with viewers suggesting that the film relies too heavily on digital effects, detracting from the authenticity of the storytelling.

In addition to the performance critiques, Zegler’s comments regarding the film’s direction have also fueled the backlash. Many fans feel that the film is attempting to push a ‘woke’ agenda, leading to further discontent among audiences who prefer a more traditional retelling of the fairy tale. This sentiment echoes a broader concern among moviegoers about the increasing trend of modern reinterpretations of classic stories.

Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, has been praised for her role, but even her presence cannot overshadow the mixed reactions surrounding the film. The portrayal of the Evil Queen is a significant departure from the original character, and some fans are questioning the creative choices made in the adaptation.

Commentators have humorously noted that Zegler’s appearance in the trailer has drawn comparisons to exaggerated features, with one user likening her eyebrows to those of actor Eugene Levy, highlighting the visual critiques that have emerged alongside performance-related concerns.

The stakes are high for Disney, as the potential failure of Snow White could have repercussions for Zegler’s career. Following her role in the underperforming Hunger Games prequel, this film could mark her second consecutive box office disappointment. If it does not resonate with audiences, questions will arise regarding how Disney will respond to the backlash. Will they attribute the film’s failure to sexism or racism, despite the success of other female-led projects like Inside Out 2 and Moana 2?

As the film’s release date approaches, the conversation surrounding Snow White continues to evolve. Fans and critics alike are eager to see whether the final product will align with their expectations or if it will further deepen the divides highlighted in the trailer’s reception.

With the film industry increasingly focused on representation and modern storytelling techniques, the outcome of Snow White could serve as a litmus test for future adaptations of beloved classics. As audiences await the film’s debut, the debate surrounding its direction, casting, and overall execution is likely to persist, shaping the landscape of Disney’s live-action endeavors.