By Jolo Flores

With a new approach to the classic tale, I had to ask the magic mirror, “Is this reimagining the fairest of them all?”

Disney’s live-action “Snow White” is the studio’s latest ongoing effort to bring its animated classics to a new generation. Directed by Marc Webb (“The Amazing Spider-Man”), the film offers a fresh take on the beloved 1937 fairy tale, with Rachel Zegler as the iconic titular princess and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.

The film gives its protagonist a renewed sense of agency while staying true to the essence of the story. Rachel Zegler delivers a lively performance, portraying Snow White as a determined and compassionate young woman who is more than just a damsel in distress; she desires to shape her destiny as a leader. Her heartfelt performance shines through despite the film’s overarching themes woven throughout the narrative.

Opposite her, Gal Gadot’s portrayal of the Evil Queen stands out as the film’s highlight. She completely embraces the character’s vanity and cruelty, making her a menacing yet captivating antagonist. Drawing inspiration from classic Disney villains, she adds a touch of modern sophistication to the role, ensuring that every scene she graces fills with theatrical flair.

One significant change from the original story is the introduction of Jonathan, a new love interest portrayed by Andrew Burnap. Unlike the traditional Prince Charming, Jonathan is a rebellious bandit who challenges the Evil Queen’s monarchy and becomes a crucial part of Snow White’s journey. He brings warmth and charm to his role, adding a fresh dimension to the story that sets himself apart from previous Disney princes, although some audiences may miss the classic prince archetype.

Visually, the film takes a grand approach, combining practical sets with visual effects-heavy landscapes. Some moments — such as the Evil Queen’s magic mirror sequences — are breathtaking. However, the most notable visual choice is the depiction of the seven dwarfs, animated through computer-generated imagery instead of traditional casting. 

This approach allows for expressive, animated performances; however, their integration with live-action elements sometimes feels inorganic. While some scenes blend seamlessly, others appear disconnected from the physical world.

Like previous Disney live-action remakes, this film updates its soundtrack. The film introduces new songs composed by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land”), replacing some of the original’s iconic songs, such as “Someday My Prince Will Come”. While the new songs aim to reflect Snow White’s journey of self-discovery, they may lack the nostalgic weight of the original soundtrack. Nevertheless, the soundtrack continues to capture the essence of Disney magic.

The film carefully explores Snow White's journey and highlights her growth. While this approach adds depth to the story, it may also lead to pacing issues, especially in the second act. However, the film culminates in an exciting confrontation between Snow White and the Evil Queen.

Overall, “Snow White” is an ambitious reimagining that brings new themes and character dynamics to the classic tale. For those seeking a fresh spin on a beloved story, this film offers a visually rich and emotionally resonant experience. While it may not replace the original in the fans’ hearts, it brings a new layer of depth to Disney’s first-ever princess.

“Snow White” is now showing in cinemas.