In 1937 the first feature length animated film was produced by Walt Disney Productions, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was release at cinemas. The film was a critical and commercial success. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was not only a moment of cinematic history, but it was also and remains the very foundation of Disney. Over recent years, Disney has been releasing a series of live action reimagining of predominantly 'princess' films, Snow White is the latest film to undergo the live action treatment. The stakes are high, how do you remake one of the most iconic films ever made? and how do you honour that legacy? Questions I'm sure were very much considered by all those involved. Audiences seem tentative in their expectations, but they have nothing to fear. Snow White is spectacular, a production of pure magic and wonder. A live action worthy of its animated predecessor and a delight to cinema goers. Read on for my full review - Minor spoilers!
Where do you begin with an animated remake? You already have the narrative, the characters, the world, the songs, you have everything that made the film a success in the first place. So how do you build upon that? You look for the weak points starting with the character development as you evolve the characters and their interactions, the plot develops from there. Rachel Zegler steps into the role of Snow White spectacularly, perfectly embodying the gentle, graceful nature of the character. Zegler expands on Snow Whites personality, adding in a soft determination and a commitment to being a fair ruler. In this film Snow White and the Evil Queen - played by Gal Gadot actually interact prior to the apple scene, adding a layer of depth to their relationship. Gadot plays the role of Evil Queen in all her menacing dramatic glory, driven not just by beauty but by power and wealth. The interactions between the pair make key plot points such as the huntsman being sent kill Snow White, the apple scene and the new ending all that more intense. Whilst both Zegler and Godot built upon the original characters, a major change comes in the form of The Prince; or as he is now called Jonathan. Andrew Burnap takes on the role of Jonathan, a rebel with a Flynn Rider (Tangled) quality about him. Jonathan is a great addition to the film, and a much needed one. The fleshing out of 'The prince' character means the love story has a chance to develop, creating a more authentic fairytale love story which is charming to watch.
Visually Snow White is breathtaking, the filmmakers have brought the fantasy world to life in a mesmerising way. A high production value is expected of Disney films, but with Snow White they have outdone themselves. There are serval shots, such as the cottage reveal and the Seven Dwarfs walking home from work that are breathtaking in their design and colouring. From the rolling fields to the apple orchard to the forest, every location feels straight out of a fantasy world, I can't quite put my finger on what makes it so wonderful, but every shot has a magical quality about it. The woodland creatures are beautifully brought to life whilst keeping an animated look about them (large eyes, flawless coats, expressions). In amongst the yellow tinted wonder, Disney does not shy away from the darker aspects of the film, the dungeons feature skeletons, and the iconic rat climbing up the chains, the rotting apple, the mirror chamber and the vulture all featuring. Every moment coming together in a visual feast.
The Narrative sticks closely to the original for the most part, never altering anything to the extreme. The end, which I am not going spoil is emotive, deserved and original. In fact, the additions add rather than detract from the original messaging of the film, bringing real tearful emotion to the film. The Seven Dwarfs are given additional backstory, with a magic that connects them to the forest and the diamonds they mine, a magic that has given them extended lifespans. The new narrative elements mean new songs are required, there are five new songs in addition to four from the original animated film. Of the new songs we have an 'I want' song for Snow White titled "Waiting on a wish" which feeds into the stronger aspects of Snow White's character. The Evil Queen also gets a song "All Is fair" which verges on cheesy but is still incredibly enjoyable. Zegler's voice is sensational as she performs both original and new songs.
Overall Snow White is a magical fairytale, full wonder and delight. The new songs and narrative changes fit seamless into the tale we all know so well, a perfect combination of old and new. A worthy follow up to the 1937 classic animation, stacked with an impress cast - led by Zegler's impressive performance. Snow White is a cinematic wonder that I'm sure fans old and new will reveal in. Pure Disney Magic.
Rating: 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for reading
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