Lately, it feels like loving movies has turned into defending them. As someone who grew up marveling at fairytales and now teaches the power of story to students, watching the discourse around 2025’s "Snow White," particularly the backlash aimed at its star Rachel Zegler, has felt exhausting.
Yes, I saw the interviews. Yes, I read the behind-the-scenes murmurs. And yes, I still watched the film. And I liked it.
We can’t ignore that Rachel Zegler’s approach in early press moments raised eyebrows. Her confidence, or as some described it, her attitude, rubbed certain viewers the wrong way. There may have been missteps, on and off camera, but I also see something else: a young actress, barely in her 20s, navigating relentless online commentary and criticism. As a teacher, I see the toll that pressure takes. I’ve watched students falter under far less, and it’s hard not to feel a sliver of empathy for the actress.
What strikes me most is how quick we are to spiral into negativity. In the age of viral takedowns and click-heavy commentary, a thoughtful review or nuanced opinion is rarely what trends. And it’s not just with film. Authors, musicians, even educators at times fall under scrutiny, and negativity is often the loudest voice in the room. But shouldn’t art be allowed to breathe before it's judged?
"Snow White" is not a perfect film. It deviates from the classic. It takes risks that not everyone will embrace. But beneath those changes lies a powerful, familiar message, one about kindness, compassion, and the quiet heroism of sharing what little you have. It was never about spectacle. It was about heart. And for a couple of hours, I got to remember what it feels like to escape into a story where hope wins.
To those hesitant because of what they've read or heard, I offer this: Watch the film for yourself. Not for the headlines or the hype, not even for Zegler, but for the possibility that you might find something in it that speaks to you. Maybe it’s not your version of "Snow White." That’s okay. But maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself enjoying the music, and the banter between the actors, one that ends with the film leaving us with the lesson that greed should never prevail in a world where so many are in need.
Because sometimes, it’s nice to believe that being kind still matters. And that’s a story I’ll always show up for.
The live-action Snow White movie will be available on Disney+ around late June or early July 2025, approximately 100 days after its theatrical release on March 21. It's also currently available for digital purchase and rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
