Rachel Zegler earns rave reviews from critics in Disney's 'Snow White' live-action remake

Critics hail Rachel Zegler as a 'shining supernova' in 'Snow White', praising her portrayal of the classic princess.

Rachel Zegler’s performance in Disney’s live-action remake of Snow White has garnered widespread praise from critics as initial reactions and reviews roll in. The film, which opens in theatres on March 21, 2025, features Zegler as the titular princess, alongside Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.

Critics have lauded Zegler's performance, with Variety’s Katcy Stephan highlighting Zegler’s ability to embody the iconic Disney princess with grace. “It’s a visual feast with show-stopping new musical numbers,” she added, emphasising the film’s vibrant energy.

Rachel Zegler is a shining supernova in #SnowWhite, beautifully embodying the graceful, gentle nature of the OG Disney princess. It’s a visual feast with show-stopping new musical numbers and, of course, dozens of enchanting animated animals. The screenplay wisely gives its… pic.twitter.com/yQ4euqIzLu

— Katcy Stephan (@katcystephan) March 16, 2025

Christopher Rates It described the remake as one of the best live-action adaptations Disney has produced in years, praising Zegler for her magical performance and declaring that “Rachel Zegler IS Snow White.” The film’s visuals and enchanting animals were also noted as standout features.

The biggest surprise of 2025 is that the most “controversial” and most hated film of the year is actually a decent live-action remake.#SnowWhite is not only one of their best live-action remakes in years, but it’s also a film that recaptures the magic of the 1937 movie. Rachel… pic.twitter.com/9LiuAPRb61

— Christopher Rates It 🦦 (@LuminousDagger) March 16, 2025

Skyler Shuler from Disinsider proclaimed the film “PURE DISNEY MAGIC,” predicting it would become one of Disney’s most beloved live-action adaptations, comparing it to Aladdin and Cinderella.

Listen, I was worried, but let me tell you Snow White is PURE DISNEY MAGIC!

This will end up being a lot of people’s favorite live-action remake. pic.twitter.com/o9SRPIircu

— Skyler Shuler (@SkylerShuler) March 16, 2025

Ash Crossan of ScreenRant praised Snow White as “quite charming,” highlighting Rachel Zegler’s enchanting performance and her stunning voice.

Despite the bob being all over the place, #SnowWhite is quite charming! The message lands well, the critters are adorable, and Rachel Zegler and her enchanting voice are stunning. It almost got a full tear out of me, and I’ve never cried in my entire life. pic.twitter.com/l1M8jwL1Gx

— Ash Crossan (@AshCrossan) March 16, 2025

However, not all feedback has been glowing. While many critics have praised Zegler, some raised concerns about the film’s CGI dwarves, with Filmhounds editor Paul Klein calling their inclusion a “baffling” choice.

I may regret saying this but #SnowWhite is solid. I really enjoyed the musical numbers, particularly the opening one and the Queen's evil bop. Zegler was great in the lead role, and Gadot was fun. It's really the CGI dwarves that let the film down. The choice is baffling. pic.twitter.com/mERKrMYc44

— Paul Klein 👾 (@paulkleinyoo) March 16, 2025

Carl Kaka at Future of The Force also criticises Snow White for its poor story changes, lacklustre special effects, and Rachel Zegler’s underwhelming portrayal of Snow White.

While Gal Gadot is great as the evil Queen, #SnowWhite isn’t a great remake of the animated classic.
Rachel Zegler is a poor Snow White, the changes to the story and lyrics are awful, some special effects are not that special and the film didn’t land for me.
A huge shame. pic.twitter.com/7tNd8VGfeV

— CarlKakaFOTF (@CarlRoberts2) March 16, 2025

Despite this, the remake’s musical numbers, especially the Evil Queen’s performance, have received considerable praise.

Directed by Marc Webb, this new take on the 1937 classic features Zegler as Snow White, Gadot as the Evil Queen, and Andrew Burnap as a prince-like character. The film also boasts original songs by award-winning composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.