In a shocking turn of events for Disney, the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of “Snow White,” featuring Rachel Zegler in the titular role, has faced a disastrous box office performance, prompting the studio to halt plans for future princess remakes. Following its release, “Snow White” has garnered only $72 million domestically against a production budget of $350 million, making it one of the lowest-rated films in history with a dismal 1.6 rating on IMDb.
Rachel Zegler, who had previously expressed confidence in her appeal, was seen in a recent video attempting to prove her popularity by showcasing a nearly empty theater as she promoted the film. The footage, featuring Zegler and her friends holding promotional materials with her image, has gone viral, illustrating the disconnect between her expectations and the reality of audience reception.
The film’s failure has not only impacted Zegler but has also led Disney to reconsider its strategy for live-action adaptations. Reports indicate that the studio has put the planned remake of “Tangled” on indefinite hold, following the backlash against “Snow White” for its modern interpretations and perceived political undertones. The adaptation of classic fairy tales has become a contentious issue, with many fans expressing disappointment over changes made to beloved characters.
Industry experts suggest that Disney’s recent struggles highlight a critical need for the studio to reevaluate its approach to storytelling, particularly when dealing with iconic properties. As the entertainment giant faces mounting pressure, the future of its live-action adaptations remains uncertain, raising questions about the direction of its beloved franchises.
With Zegler’s career now in the spotlight, the fallout from “Snow White” serves as a cautionary tale for Hollywood, reminding filmmakers of the importance of aligning creative choices with audience expectations. As Disney navigates this challenging period, the entertainment landscape watches closely to see how it will adapt to the changing tides of audience sentiment.