Disney’s Snow White (2025) Review Roundup: Strong Performances Amid Divisive Reactions

Disney’s latest live-action remake, Snow White (2025), directed by Marc Webb, has started rolling out for critics ahead of its March 21 theatrical release. The film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, has been one of the studio’s most talked-about projects, facing both anticipation and controversy leading up to its debut.

With the first reviews now in, reactions have been highly divided, with praise directed at Zegler’s performance and the film’s musical elements, while criticism centers on production design, pacing, and modernization efforts.

Rachel Zegler’s Performance Draws Positive Reactions

Despite early skepticism, Rachel Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White has been widely praised by several critics.

• The Hollywood Reporter (David Rooney) described Zegler as “incandescent”, highlighting that she “radiates light and beauty” and portrays Snow White’s determination “with a delicate yet firm sense of self.”
• Variety (Owen Gleiberman) remarked that Zegler “has a pertly appealing glow”, calling Snow White “one of the better live-action adaptations” compared to past Disney remakes.
• IndieWire (Kate Erbland) stated that while the film is “not great, but certainly good,” it benefits from “spirited and sweet performances” and “some canny updates to extremely dated material.”
• Screen Rant (Ash Crossan) called Snow White “quite charming”, noting that Zegler’s “enchanting voice” was a standout element.

Mixed Reception for Gal Gadot’s Evil Queen

Gal Gadot’s performance as the Evil Queen has generated varying opinions, with some critics appreciating her screen presence, while others found it lacking in menace.

• Variety complimented Gadot’s “dramatic presence”, stating that she brings “wicked charm” to the role.
• Rolling Stone, however, argued that Gadot’s Evil Queen “fails to bring any true menace,” making her feel “more like a pantomime villain than a true threat.”

Production Design & Visual Elements Face Criticism

While performances have received some praise, the film’s visual style, set design, and costuming have been among the most criticized aspects.

• Vulture (Allison Willmore) described the set design as “plasticky” and the costuming as “gift-shop tacky.”
• The Guardian labeled the film “a dull and unnecessary remake”, questioning whether it offers a meaningful update to the Disney classic.
• Rolling Stone (David Fear) referred to Snow White as “a strong contender for Disney’s blandest live-action remake,” stating that it “lacks emotional depth and relies too heavily on familiar tropes.”
• The New York Post criticized the film as “one more boring, mediocre live-action Disney retread.”