Can a timeless fairy tale truly be reimagined for a modern audience without losing its inherent magic? Disney's 2025 adaptation of "Snow White" promises a visually stunning spectacle that delves into the heart of a classic, but it also sparks debate about the evolution of beloved stories.
The anticipation surrounding the live-action "Snow White" has been building, with glimpses of the film offering hints of what to expect. Directed by Marc Webb, known for his work on "500 Days of Summer" and "The Amazing Spider-Man" films, the movie is poised to deliver a fresh perspective on the enduring tale. The story follows the classic narrative: a beautiful young princess, pursued by a jealous queen, seeks refuge in the company of seven dwarfs in a bucolic German landscape.
One of the most intriguing elements of the 2025 adaptation is its cast. Rachel Zegler, who previously starred in "West Side Story," takes on the iconic role of Snow White. Gal Gadot, celebrated for her portrayal of Wonder Woman, embodies the Evil Queen, and Andrew Burnap steps into the role of Jonathan, a new character created for this iteration. The film also features Ansu Kabia, and Martin Klebba as Grumpy among others. Adding to the allure, the film includes new original songs by the acclaimed songwriting team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for their work on "La La Land" and "Dear Evan Hansen." The integration of fresh musical numbers suggests a contemporary reimagining of the classic songs that many grew up with.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Burnap |
| Date of Birth | March 5, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | South Kingstown, Rhode Island |
| Education | Rhode Island School of Design, Yale School of Drama |
| Notable Roles | "Snow White" (2025), "WeCrashed" (TV Series), "The Inheritance" (Broadway) |
| Known For | His roles in theater and Television |
| Current Projects | "Othello" (Broadway Production) |
| Accolades | Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play (2020) |
| Additional Notes | Burnap's success is attributed to his grounded approach and low expectations. |
| Reference | IMDb |
The production has garnered significant attention, not only because of its A-list cast but also due to its impressive budget. With a reported cost approaching $300 million, the film is poised to be a major undertaking for Disney. The promotional efforts, however, have been somewhat subdued, which is noteworthy as the release date of March 21, 2025, approaches. Disney's classic adaptation, has had its release date shifted a few times, first announced at the D23 Expo in 2022 with a premiere date of March 2024 before being pushed to the current date.
The film's narrative, drawing inspiration from the 1937 animated classic "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," promises to uphold the core elements of the original while introducing fresh perspectives. The focus on Snow White's resilience and bravery, as highlighted by the creative team, implies a modern sensibility, moving away from the damsel-in-distress trope. The presence of Jonathan, a new character, further signifies a commitment to creating something original. The tale of a princess fleeing an evil stepmother's wrath and finding solace with a group of unlikely friends is sure to strike a chord.
Alongside Disneys adaptation, another Snow White film is also slated for release in 2025, adding further complexity to the cultural conversation surrounding this iconic story. Produced by the conservative media outlet The Daily Wire, this competing project offers a different artistic interpretation, starring Brett Cooper as Snow White. This development reflects the diverse approaches to storytelling and the varying perspectives on adapting timeless narratives for contemporary audiences.
The film's running time is slated to be 109 minutes, and it is rated PG, which is suitable for audiences with the consideration of "violence, some peril, thematic elements and brief rude humor." The adaptation also touches on themes that resonated with audiences when they were children, such as the power of friendship and the triumph of good over evil. The cast list includes not only the major players but also other well-known actors like Ansu Kabia as the Huntsman, Dujonna Gift as Maple, and George Salazar.
As "Snow White" (2025) gears up for its theatrical release, it faces a landscape of considerable expectation. The casting choices, the inclusion of original songs, and the sheer scale of the production point to Disney's ambition to breathe new life into the beloved fairy tale. The film is set to be directed and produced by Marc Webb from a screenplay by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson. Ultimately, the true measure of success will depend on whether the reimagining can captivate audiences with its modern sensibilities while honoring the timeless appeal of the original.
