Disney’s ‘Snow White’ Remake Faces Criticism for Departing from Its Original Themes
(Photo: Walt Disney Co.)
The live-action adaptation of Disney’s ‘Snow White’ has sparked a conversation not just about its box office performance but also its thematic choices. The film, a remake of the 1937 classic, struggled at the box office, earning $43 million against a production budget of $209 million.
Prominent criticism comes from Harvest pastor Greg Laurie, who argues that the new version has lost the moral and spiritual essence that resonated in the original. Laurie, who has ventured into filmmaking with the 2023 hit ‘Jesus Revolution,’ believes the remake shifts focus from the moral battle between good and evil to contemporary themes of empowerment and self-reliance.
In a YouTube video, Laurie elaborated on how the original ‘Snow White’ story mirrored biblical narratives, particularly likening the Evil Queen’s vanity to Lucifer’s prideful fall. “That’s basically the story that we read about in the Bible, about Lucifer, a once high-ranking, powerful angel who wanted to take the place of God with himself,” Laurie explained.
One of Laurie’s main concerns is the removal of the iconic song “Some Day My Prince Will Come,” replaced by “Waiting on a Wish,” performed by lead actress Rachel Zegler. Laurie suggests this change marks a departure from themes of love and redemption, moving instead toward self-sufficiency and empowerment.
“Heaven forbid we acknowledge the timeless human desire for love, redemption, and rescue,” Laurie remarked, emphasizing his belief that the narrative’s core has shifted from its gospel roots.
The pastor also sees parallels between the original story’s themes of resurrection and the Christian concept of salvation. He likens Snow White’s revival to spiritual awakening, empowered by a father figure he views as a Christ-like symbol.
Adding to the controversy, Rachel Zegler, who stars as Snow White, has publicly critiqued the original film as “dated” and has dismissed traditional themes of longing for true love. Instead, Zegler’s portrayal aims to present Snow White as an aspiring leader, inspired by her late father’s vision.
Laurie interprets the character of the Good King as embodying divine love and authority, asserting that Snow White’s awakening is a metaphor for spiritual renewal, guided by her father’s legacy.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
