‘Snow White’s’ Disastrous Box Office Outcome Couldn’t Stop Its Disney+ Takeover
The world of Disney live-action remakes is often as controversial as it is lucrative, and few films have stirred as much conversation as the recent remake of Snow White. From its release in theaters to its sudden success on Disney+, this film has gone on an unpredictable journey that has captivated audiences and critics alike.
When Disney’s Snow White was first announced in 2016, it was seen as yet another step in Disney’s ongoing push to reimagine its animated classics. However, as the film neared its release in March 2025, it became apparent that it wasn’t going to be just another storybook remake.
Related: Disney’s ‘Snow White’ Wins Dubious ‘Pollution’ Honor
The film’s release date was delayed several times, and this only fueled the growing speculation that something was off behind the scenes.
The controversy surrounding the film primarily stemmed from the casting of Rachel Zegler as the titular Snow White. Zegler, who is of Polish and Colombian descent, faced a barrage of racist attacks from some who claimed she was “not white enough” to portray the character. These attacks were met with a strong defense from fans, but things only escalated when Zegler herself made a series of controversial remarks.
She criticized the original Snow White story, stating that her version of the princess would be more active and independent, even suggesting that Snow White didn’t need a prince at all.
Related: Disney’s ‘Snow White’ Receives Rare Warning After Box Office Disappointment
Despite the growing backlash, the film still managed to garner attention. When it was finally released in theaters, the response was less than stellar. The movie grossed just over $200 million, a figure far below expectations, with industry experts predicting that Disney would lose more than $100 million on the project. Critics were quick to slam the film, with its 39% rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflecting the negative sentiment.
However, in an unexpected twist, Snow White found a second life when it debuted on Disney+ on June 11, 2025. The film quickly rose to the top of the streaming service’s rankings, securing the number one spot within just two days of its release.
While its box office performance was a disaster, the movie has clearly found an audience on Disney’s streaming platform.
It’s important to note, however, that this newfound success on Disney+ doesn’t erase the movie’s struggles at the box office. The streaming numbers, though impressive, are unlikely to make a significant dent in the financial losses Disney incurred. Still, it’s a silver lining that the film has managed to resonate with audiences at home, even if it didn’t do so well in theaters.
In contrast to the critical reception, Snow White has performed much better with audiences. While it holds a mere 39% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, its audience score sits comfortably at 71%, showing that many fans still found enjoyment in the film despite the public backlash.
As the dust settles and the film’s trajectory continues, one thing is clear: Snow White has managed to carve out a place for itself in the world of Disney live-action remakes. It may not have been the massive box office hit that Disney had hoped for, but its success on Disney+ proves that the princess’s story still has the power to captivate.
Have you watched Snow White on Disney+? What are your thoughts on the film’s success despite the controversy? Do you think Rachel Zegler’s portrayal of the princess lived up to expectations? Join the conversation in the comments below and share your opinion on the film’s rocky yet surprising journey to streaming stardom.
This movie will never find a spot in my home! Trying to shove it down our throats on Disney+ won’t work either!
Totally agree with you!!
This entire article is face saving propaganda from Disney. People REALLY don’t want to see the dismal ” Snow White ” regardless how often Disney tells us we ” really do “, and may I add, as far as Zeglers ” headlining ” London performance is concerned. I can assure you, she us at best, acceptable, nothing more. I will add, I was not there spending my own money, but escorting 2 clients, one of whom later said, ” a movie may have been better “. Disney, some say, is dying. I disagree with behaviour like this, and their decision to attempt to blacklist beloved stars, BEFORE anything is proven in court, their desire to kill everything they touch, like Star Wars. Rey for example, successful movies, yet Suddenly ” Rey dropped, new writer/director has a better idea, which they usually don’t. Look at Marvel? Dead in the water. No, Disney is not DYING, it is committing SUICIDE, either via its woke perseverance, or by the fact that ALL writers see their work as a means to push a woke agenda. Disney will be nothing but a long gone memory in 20 years. What a way to destroy the legacy of Walt Disney.