Movies

Disney’s Woke Snow White Remake Forced to Relocate Premiere to Remote Spanish Castle

BBG News

Due to controversy surrounding its progressive themes and stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, as well as Disney reducing the promotional activities, the debut of the Snow White remake has been shifted to a secluded castle in Spain instead.

Initially, the film’s producers intended to throw an extravagant Hollywood party that would match the impressive $269.4 million budget of the film, featuring events in Los Angeles, London, and various global locations.

Despite a string of controversies and public relations mishaps clouding the release of the remake, I, as a lifestyle expert, would say that Disney has opted to downsize their extravagant premieres to merely a select few, closely managed press engagements instead.

Currently residing at a great distance from the limelight of the media, actresses Zegler (Snow White) and Gadot (Evil Queen) are traveling to the minuscule city of Segovia, located northwest of Madrid. This city is home to approximately 51,000 residents.

The Alcázar of Segovia, an ancient castle perched on a rocky outcrop at the old city’s western edge and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is hosting an event to which media organizations have not received invitations.

At the start of this month, it was reported by the Mail that Disney has been preparing for potential backlash against their upcoming film “Snow White” due to perceived wokeness, and as a result, they’ve scaled down their media promotion strategy to only a few select, closely managed press events.

Instead of holding a London premiere for the movie, they’ve opted for an uncommon approach by avoiding it, and they’re limiting the number of inquiries directed towards Rachel Zegler from the media.

During this premier, it’s interesting to note that it’s taking place outside the usual locations you might associate with such an extravagant film. There seems to be a purpose behind this decision.

The Alcázar of Segovia served as the model for the castle depicted in Disney’s 1937 classic animation Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, due to its unique structure, towers, and sloping rooftops. This architectural style is clearly visible in the film.

The Alcázar has been constructed and subsequently refurbished numerous times spanning over many centuries, initially serving as a residence for a Muslim ruler in the 10th century.

Today, this structure stands as a notable representation of Mudejar architecture, a style that blossomed under Moorish influence across Iberian regions between the 13th and 16th centuries.

The upper stories of the palace are still used by Spain’s royal family when they visit Seville.

On Wednesdays and Thursdays, the general public is not allowed to enter the castle because it’s being temporarily closed for a private gathering or function.

Another indication that the event is being kept private from the press is that no specific date for the premiere has been listed on public calendar schedules.

Instead, Spanish Zegler fan accounts have been sharing evidence of the premiere coming into town. 

This week, the cast is set to return to the U.S., with Zegler, aged 23, and Gadot, aged 39, anticipated to attend a pre-event and screening at Los Angeles’ El Capitan Theatre on March 15. Only photographers and a maintenance team will be allowed for coverage.

Instead of following the usual trend where numerous media outlets are invited for premieres and interviews with the cast, the studio has chosen to break away from tradition for this specific event.

Last week, Zegler was present at a promotional event for the movie “Solo” in Tokyo. However, neither Gadot nor the rest of the cast members were there.

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The decision is made while facing criticism and apprehension, as some people believe that the reboot emphasized contemporary social messages at the expense of genuine storytelling.

After Disney chose Zegler for Snow White, some Disney fans have pointed out changes from the original fairy tale that they see as progressive or “woke”. These alterations include removing the traditional romantic plot due to its perceived sexism, and reimagining the Seven Dwarfs as a diverse assortment of magical creatures with varying heights, genders, and races.

In addition, Zegler expressed that David Hand’s 1937 animated film appears quite outdated regarding portrayals of women in positions of power and societal expectations of women’s roles.

‘The original cartoon came out in 1937, and very evidently so,’ she scoffed to Extra TV in 2022. 

In our new approach, we’ve chosen not to emphasize the romantic aspect between her and an individual who seems to be following her closely, as it might appear unusual.

Our method for this film may not align with the typical expectations some might have, given that it features a male lead. However, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a romantic tale.

She playfully remarked, “Every one of Andrew’s parts might be eliminated – you never know! It’s Tinseltown, darling!” However, during a different conversation, she openly confessed that she was petrified when she experienced the iconic Snow White ride at Disney World.

Regarding the 1937 movie, she expressed her fear: “The initial release gave me quite a scare. I believe I only watched it once, and haven’t revisited it since.” She was genuinely expressing this sentiment.

In addition, Zegler shared with Variety that instead of yearning for true love, her interpretation of Snow White will be aspiring to become a courageous leader in her dreams.

The Golden Globe winner shared with Cosmo that for Snow White, there’s a well-known moment when she falls into a lake via a trapdoor-like structure in a forest. We replicated this scene, and I took up scuba diving lessons so I could spend an extended period underwater.

During my experience, a former Navy member named Pete was constantly with me, connected to me. In essence, I underwent approximately 48 hours of training, and we continued filming for two full days. This included being submerged for a total of seven hours underwater.

Previously, it was disclosed to DailyMail.com that Zegler’s image as an unpredictable individual came close to costing her the role of Snow White.

Zegler’s strong opinions have prompted some haters to vow to boycott the film. 

Ever since she clinched the role of María Vasquez in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 West Side Story remake, defeating 30,000 other actresses for the part, she has faced persistent scrutiny and criticism.

The announcement of her role as Snow White in Disney’s 2025 live-action adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs sparked controversy, with some people criticizing the choice of casting and others harassing her due to her progressive political beliefs.

Reflecting on criticisms regarding her casting as Snow White, Zegler maintained that she can’t fathom why some “Disney adults” might object to a Latina actress playing the cherished character.

Zegler went on to disclose that the phrase depicting her character’s skin as “white as snow” alludes to “an alternate tale of Snow White from history,” where the character lived through a snowstorm that happened during her infancy.

Originally, the monarchs chose to call her ‘Snow White’ as a tribute to her strength and tenacity, a fact remarked by the local from Hackensack. A key message in our production that we hope resonates with young women and individuals alike is the reminder of their inherent power and resilience.

The star confessed it was disheartening to witness numerous individuals criticize her harshly, after she playfully hinted that her interpretation of Snow White wouldn’t be rescued by a prince.

She shared, “I felt genuinely saddened by the manner it was taken because I firmly believe in the capabilities of women – that they can accomplish anything. At the same time, I understand how disheartening it can be when something gets misunderstood or a joke falls flat.

Zegler emphasized that the ‘love story plays a crucial role,’ and she clarified that her remake will indeed include romantic elements.

She stated, “I’ve seen women being criticized and undermined throughout my entire life and career. This trend will continue during the upcoming election and I worry it may persist for a while. At times, it seems as though we are taking steps backward; it definitely felt that way when it was happening.

As much as I’m drawn to step away from the digital world occasionally, there are instances when I can’t help but admit that I don’t want to grant those internet bullies the gratification of seeing their words affect me immediately.

‘You give them a lot of power by taking a social media break,’ she pointed out.

Over the years, she has used her platforms to champion causes that are important to her.

During the SAG-AFTRA strike in 2023, she expressed concerns regarding potential risks associated with AI, referring to an instance where approximately 465 photographs were taken from various angles of her body for use in CGI action scenes.

She expressed her concern, saying, ‘It felt like a bleak, futuristic society.’ She was terrified of the possibility that an artificial intelligence model created from a scan taken when she was 18 would replace her and prevent her from ever working on a set again. She wondered why they wouldn’t use this for the rest of her career.

She’s also advocated for Palestinians.

She expressed to the media outlet, “I can’t bear witness to children dying. I don’t believe it should be controversial… We’re approaching the anniversary of the devastating incidents in Israel from October 7th, yet I’ve been keeping tabs on this conflict for such a long time.

Just like numerous others, I’m deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives we’ve been witnessing in both areas, which are overwhelmingly high.

Still, she acknowledges that she doesn’t ‘have the answers.’

‘I don’t think any celebrity making a political statement has the answers,’ she said. 

‘Although it may be up to us to provide these people with the financial assistance they lack, as we have the means to share a donation link, we can ensure they receive necessary funds, care, and aid. If this implies that we need to assume positions of influence in order to help, then I am ready and willing to take on such roles.’

Earlier, Disney faced criticism when they revealed plans to substitute the seven dwarves with magical creatures in an effort to steer clear of perpetuating stereotypes. Last year, Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage voiced his disapproval, labeling the decision a “backwards story.

I must confess, I felt a tad surprised when Disney announced they were casting a Latina in the role of Snow White, yet they’re still sticking to the classic tale of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.’ I shared this thought during an interview on Mark Maron’s WTF podcast.

It doesn’t compute for me. You advocate for progression yet continue to perpetuate an outdated tale about seven dwarfs residing in a cave. It seems contradictory, and I can’t help but wonder if my efforts from the soapbox have been insufficient. Perhaps I haven’t spoken loudly enough.

Dinklage’s worries echoed those of certain charitable organizations, such as the UK’s Restricted Growth Association.

Rhonda Cutmore, an association member, expressed strong agreement and frustration with Peter Dinklage’s sentiments about Disney’s Snow White remake, as she shared with The Telegraph.

Steph Robson, a writer with dwarfism, expressed her hope that movie producers would strive to steer clear of stereotypes when they remake the timeless film.

She expressed her wish that the recent live-action adaptation by Disney would attempt to correct, in some measure, the longstanding issue of one-dimensional stereotypes related to disability, which has been prevalent not only in these decades but also significantly within artistic and cultural spheres, as she shared with the media outlet.

The narrative has faced criticism as it is perceived as discriminatory towards individuals with intellectual disabilities, as it depicts dwarfs as less intelligent, and Snow White treats them like children.

The story has been criticized for being ableist, as it portrays the dwarfs as having lower intelligence, and Snow White treats them more like children than adults.

Disney later said it’s ‘taking a different approach’ with Snow White’s seven companions.

Last year, I was proud to share that our company had engaged with individuals from the dwarfism community during the initial phases of our production process.

As a dedicated lifestyle guide, I’m excited to share that in our reinterpretation of the beloved animated film, we’re opting for a fresh perspective on these seven characters. To ensure authenticity and respect, we’ve been collaborating closely with members from the dwarfism community throughout this creative process.

We’re excited to provide updates as the movie enters its production phase, following a prolonged development process.

Last December, it was reported by reliable sources involved in the project that Snow White’s companions, often referred to as “dwarfs,” would not be entirely computer-generated, and they won’t actually resemble dwarfs as we traditionally understand them.

Instead, she would be befriended by magical, forest-dwelling creatures.

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2025-03-12 15:35

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