There's still an enchanting spark within the timeless tale of "Snow White." Disney's controversial live-action reboot gleamed with a child-appealing charm during its Los Angeles premiere on Saturday, where Rachel Zegler, the starlet portraying the titular character, embraced her Disney princess persona with utmost elegance.
The 23-year-old actress, recently acclaimed for her role in "West Side Story," donned a breathtaking peachy-pink strapless taffeta gown adorned with a belted corset embellished with butterflies and a voluminous skirt. Her hair was swept up into a sophisticated bun, complemented by a dazzling diamond necklace, chandelier earrings, and sparkling rings.
Alongside her, co-star Gal Gadot, who essayed the role of the Evil Queen, wowed in a sheer black lace gown overlayed with a ruffled overskirt. Both greeted and hugged their young fans, many of whom dressed as the beloved princess in instantly recognizable blue-and-yellow dresses.
The stars refrained from answering questions on the red carpet, which was exclusively meant for movie enthusiasts.
"I perceive the public's sentiments towards this film as a testament to their passion for it – and what an immense honor it is to be part of something that ignites such fervent enthusiasm," Zegler shared with Vogue Mexico last month.
The movie has faced scrutiny for "taking a divergent path" in depicting Snow White's tiny companions, the Seven Dwarfs, and casting Zegler, of Colombian and Polish descent, in contrast to the original 1937 character's ethnicity. Furthermore, Zegler stirred controversy by likening the cartoon prince's pursuit of Snow White to stalking.
However, the initial reactions to the completed film, scheduled for theatrical release on March 21, were promising. Katcy Stephan of Variety hailed Zegler as "a radiant supernova," praising her for "elegantly capturing the graceful, gentle essence of the OG Disney princess."
"It's a visual spectacle filled with showstopping new musical numbers and, naturally, an array of enchanting animated animals," she penned. "The screenplay wisely adds newfound depth to its heroine through her earnest aspiration to become the leader her father believed she could be, and a love story as sweet as apple pie."
Ash Crossan of Screen Rant called the film "utterly charming!" "The message resonates well, the critters are adorable, and Rachel Zegler's enchanting voice is mesmerizing," Crossan wrote. "It almost brought me to tears, and I've never cried in my entire life."
"Listen, I was apprehensive, but let me assure you, Snow White is PURE DISNEY MAGIC!" wrote Skyler Shuler of The DisInsider. "This will undoubtedly become a favorite live-action remake for many."
Matt DeGroot of Crooked Media echoed similar high praise. "Despite becoming an internet punching bag, Disney's remake of Snow White is actually quite successful!" he penned. "Rachel Zegler shines brightly as a star, (most of) the new songs are catchy and beautifully rendered, and the visual palette is luxurious and vibrant."
