Disney's "Woke" Snow White Remake Loses $170 Million

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Disney's live-action remake of Snow White is reportedly facing major financial losses, with industry estimates suggesting the studio could be down as much as $170 million following a disappointing theatrical run. The film opened to $87.3 million worldwide, falling short of expectations and ranking among the lower-performing live-action remakes in Disney's catalog. Analysts say the film's high production costs, marketing spend, and extended reshoots contributed to the steep losses.

Why it matters

The Snow White remake's struggles add to broader conversations in the entertainment industry about franchise fatigue, audience expectations, and how studios adapt classic stories for modern audiences. The film faced early criticism over creative decisions, including the depiction of the Seven Dwarfs, leading to reported revisions and additional production expenses.

The details

Lead actress Rachel Zegler drew attention during the promotional cycle for comments about the original 1937 film and broader social issues, which sparked debate online. While Hollywood accounting makes exact profit-and-loss figures difficult to confirm, box office performance indicates the remake underperformed relative to its budget.

• The film opened in theaters on March 15, 2025.