WEBDESK: The upcoming Disney Snow White remake has sparked controversy after it was revealed that CGI characters are replacing the iconic seven dwarfs. Many dwarf actors have voiced their disappointment, arguing that this decision takes away acting opportunities from them.
Peter Dinklage spoke out about the movie’s portrayal of little people over negative stereotypes. “Literally no offense to anything, but I was sort of taken aback,” he said on the “WTF With Mark Maron” podcast in January 2024. “They were very proud to cast a Latino actress as Snow White, but you’re still telling the story of ‘Disney Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.’ Take a step back and look at what you’re doing there.”
The backlash began when set photos from Disney Snow White surfaced, showing digitally created dwarf-like characters instead of real actors. The film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, has already faced multiple controversies, including criticism over changes to the classic story.
Disney Snow White defended the decision, saying it wanted to take a “new approach” to the characters to avoid stereotypes. However, many feel that instead of erasing the dwarfs, the studio could have cast actors from the dwarfism community while ensuring respectful portrayals.
World politics have also come into play. Zegler has promoted “free Palestine” on social media. At the same time, Gadot, who is Israeli, has become an outspoken supporter of Israel on social media as well as in a passionate speech she delivered on March 4 when she was honoured at the Anti-Defamation League’s annual summit in New York City.
With the movie set for a 2025 release, Disney Snow White continues to be at the center of debate. Whether the backlash will affect its performance at the box office remains to be seen.
As a result of the ongoing uncertainty and controversy, Disney is hosting a Hollywood premiere of “Snow White” on March 15, but the studio won’t be rolling out a red carpet like it usually does.
The afternoon festivities will include a pre-party and screening at the El Capitan Theatre with stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, expected to attend. However, the red carpet will not include the dozens of media outlets usually invited by Disney to interview the cast and creatives at its premieres.
Instead, coverage will be limited to photographers and a in-house crew.
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