Disney’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of “Snow White” is facing criticism for its perceived excessive political correctness, particularly regarding the portrayal of the seven dwarfs as “magical creatures” of various sizes and genders.
Set to release next year, the film has caused a stir after a stand-in for Snow White was spotted in Bedfordshire, England, accompanied by a diverse group of brightly colored friends representing different genders, races, and sizes, reflecting a modernized take on the beloved 1937 animated classic.
However, not everyone is enchanted by Disney’s modern approach to the fairy tale. Critics took to social media to voice their disapproval, using hashtags like “#GoWokeGoBroke” and jokingly renaming the film as “Snow White and the Seven Diversity Hires.” Some questioned the absence of traditional dwarfs and demanded “dwarf equity.”
The movie has undergone other changes as well, such as the decision to remove Prince Charming’s role as the savior and instead focus on Snow White pursuing her leadership ambitions.
The film has faced significant backlash since its announcement, with actor Peter Dinklage, known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” criticizing the portrayal of dwarfs in the story. He expressed his concerns about the perpetuation of stereotypes and questioned the progressive intentions behind casting a Latina actress as Snow White while keeping the traditional depiction of the seven dwarfs.
In response to the criticism, Disney stated that it was taking a different approach to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and had consulted with members of the dwarfism community.
Actress Rachel Zegler, known for her role in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” remake, defended the changes made in the “Snow White” adaptation, emphasizing the need for a refreshing and empowering story for a young woman beyond the traditional narrative of waiting for a prince.
The upcoming film, written by director Greta Gerwig and helmed by director Marc Webb, seeks to offer a modern twist on the classic tale, challenging outdated norms while sparking conversations about representation and inclusivity.