Nearly a century after the 1937 animated classic first enchanted audiences, a new version of Snow White has arrived in theaters and on streaming platforms. The 2025 live-action musical remake reimagines the familiar tale with a fresh cast, new songs, and an expanded storyline that gives its heroine a more active role. This guide covers where to watch the film, who stars in it, and how it measures up against the stories that inspired it.
Where to Watch Snow White in 2025: Streaming, Digital, and Theaters
March 21, 2025
Marc Webb
Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot, Andrew Burnap
1937 Animated Film & Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale
The film premiered in Segovia, Spain, on March 12, 2025, before arriving in U.S. theaters on March 21, 2025. Disney described it as a “live-action musical reimagining” and initially released it exclusively in theaters. The movie later became available on Disney+; Rotten Tomatoes lists streaming availability starting May 13, 2025. For those who prefer to own a digital copy, the film can also be rented or purchased on platforms such as Fandango at Home.
- The 2025 Snow White movie is a live-action musical reimagining of Disney’s 1937 classic, not a direct retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale.
- The film is available in theaters and on Disney+ following its theatrical run, with digital purchase options available.
- Rachel Zegler stars as Snow White, while Gal Gadot plays the Evil Queen.
- The movie expands the story with new characters and a ‘rebel’ subplot, differentiating it from the original.
| Key Facts: Snow White (2025) | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Marc Webb |
| Screenplay | Erin Cressida Wilson |
| Starring | Rachel Zegler, Gal Gadot, Andrew Burnap |
| Runtime | Approximately 1 hour 49 minutes |
| Music | Pasek and Paul (new songs), with music from the original by Frank Churchill and Leigh Harline |
| Distributor | Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures |
Who is in the Cast of the Snow White Live-Action Movie?
Rachel Zegler as Snow White
Rachel Zegler, known for her role in West Side Story, takes on the titular role of Snow White. Her casting was announced in 2021 and generated significant attention due to her Colombian-American heritage. For more on Disney’s live-action casting choices, see our overview of recent Disney remakes.
Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen
Gal Gadot, widely recognized for playing Wonder Woman, portrays the Evil Queen. Her casting was confirmed alongside Zegler’s in 2021.
Andrew Burnap as Jonathan
Andrew Burnap plays Jonathan, a new character created for the 2025 film. Jonathan serves as the love interest and is part of a rebel group working to liberate the kingdom.
Supporting Cast Members
Emilia Faucher appears as Young Snow White. The voice cast for the seven dwarfs includes Andrew Barth Feldman as Dopey and Tituss Burgess as Bashful, among other actors providing vocal performances for the CGI characters.
The 2025 film introduces Jonathan as a new character not present in the 1937 animated version. This addition is part of the broader effort to expand the story and give Snow White a more proactive storyline.
What is the Plot of the 2025 Snow White Live-Action Remake?
The 2025 film follows Snow White, a princess living under the cruel rule of her stepmother, the Evil Queen. After the Queen orders her death, Snow White escapes into a forest where she discovers a cottage inhabited by seven dwarfs. The film adds a new dimension: Snow White joins forces with a group of rebels led by Jonathan to liberate her kingdom from the Evil Queen’s tyranny.
Disney’s official press release describes it as “a live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film, journeying back to the timeless story with beloved characters.” The film includes original songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, as well as music from the 1937 film by Frank Churchill and Leigh Harline. The runtime is approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes.
Is the 2025 Snow White a Musical?
Yes. The film retains its musical roots with new songs written by the duo behind La La Land and The Greatest Showman, alongside beloved tracks from the original animated feature.
The new songs by Pasek and Paul are designed to complement the original score by Frank Churchill and Leigh Harline, blending contemporary musical theater sensibilities with classic Disney melodies.
What is the Original Snow White Story and How Does it Compare?
The Brothers Grimm Origins
The story of Snow White originates from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale published in 1812. In the original German version, a queen asks a huntsman to kill Snow White but is ultimately defeated after Snow White marries a prince. The 1937 Disney film significantly softened the tale, adding singing dwarfs and a happy ending.
The 2025 live-action remake draws primarily from the 1937 animated film rather than the Grimm version. However, it also introduces modern themes: Snow White is depicted as a leader and a strategist, not simply a damsel in distress. The film’s rebel subplot and the character of Jonathan are entirely new inventions.
How the 2025 Movie Differs from the 1937 Cartoon
Multiple differences exist between the two versions. The 2025 film gives Snow White greater agency, introduces new characters such as Jonathan and the rebels, and uses CGI for the seven dwarfs rather than traditional animation. The musical numbers, while including some original songs, incorporate new compositions by Pasek and Paul.
Who are the Seven Dwarfs in the 2025 Movie?
The seven dwarfs in the 2025 film are rendered as CGI characters. They retain their traditional names: Doc, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy, and Dopey. The voice cast includes actors such as Jeremy Swift and Tituss Burgess providing the vocal performances. The decision to use CGI rather than actors in dwarf costumes was a notable production choice that generated discussion during the film’s development.
The portrayal of the seven dwarfs in the 2025 film became a subject of controversy during production. Disney opted for CGI characters rather than casting actors with dwarfism, a decision that drew criticism from advocacy groups and some members of the public.
Development and Release Timeline for Snow White (2025)
- 2016: Disney begins development of a live-action Snow White film.
- 2019: Marc Webb is announced as director.
- 2021: Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot are cast in lead roles.
- 2022: Principal photography begins in the UK. Production was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2023: Controversy arises regarding casting and the portrayal of the dwarfs.
- March 12, 2025: The film premieres in Segovia, Spain.
- March 21, 2025: Snow White opens in U.S. theaters.
What is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear About the Film?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| The film’s release date was March 21, 2025. | The exact streaming date on Disney+ varies by region and is subject to Disney’s release schedule. |
| Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot are the lead actors. | Specific details of the plot may differ from early reports or official trailers. |
| The film is a musical reimagining of the 1937 animated classic. | The film’s box office performance and critical reception are ongoing data points. |
| The film is available on Disney+. | Full box office figures and long-term audience reception statistics are not yet finalized. |
Background and Significance of the 2025 Remake
The 2025 Snow White is part of Disney’s ongoing strategy of creating live-action remakes of its animated classics, following previous films such as The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast. The film is significant due to its high-profile casting — Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot are both internationally recognized names — and the use of advanced CGI for the dwarfs. Learn more about the broader trend of live-action adaptations in our analysis of Disney’s remake strategy.
Unlike the 1937 film, the 2025 version places a stronger emphasis on Snow White’s agency and leadership, reflecting modern storytelling values. The reception has been mixed; some critics praised the performances and visuals, while others questioned the story changes and the CGI execution. Early box office figures can be tracked via Box Office Mojo.
Sources and Official Statements
“A live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film, journeying back to the timeless story with beloved characters.”
Disney Official Press Release
“A princess joins forces with seven dwarfs and a group of rebels to liberate her kingdom from her cruel stepmother the Evil Queen.”
“Directed by Marc Webb and written by Erin Cressida Wilson, the film stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White, with Andrew Burnap and Gal Gadot in supporting roles.”
Wikipedia
Summary: What to Know About Snow White in 2025
The 2025 Snow White live-action remake is Snow White (2025 film) — a musical reimagining of the 1937 Disney classic, available in theaters and on Disney+. It stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, adds new characters and songs, and represents a modern take on a story that has been told for more than two centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Snow White movie based on the original fairy tale?
The movie is a reimagining of Disney’s 1937 animated film, which was in turn loosely based on the 1812 Brothers Grimm fairy tale. The 2025 version adds new elements and characters.
What is the runtime of Snow White?
The runtime for the 2025 film is approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes.
Who is the male lead in Snow White 2025?
Andrew Burnap plays the character Jonathan, a new character created for this film, who takes on the role of the love interest.
Are the seven dwarfs animated in the 2025 movie?
Yes, the dwarfs in the 2025 film are CGI characters, voiced by actors like Jeremy Swift and Tituss Burgess.
What is the difference between the 1937 cartoon and the 2025 live-action?
The 2025 version expands the story, giving Snow White more agency and introducing a rebel character. It also includes new musical numbers by Pasek and Paul.
Where can I stream Snow White 2025?
The film is available on Disney+ as of May 13, 2025, in several regions. It can also be rented or purchased on platforms like Fandango at Home.
Who plays the Evil Queen in the 2025 movie?
Gal Gadot portrays the Evil Queen in the 2025 live-action remake.
Is the 2025 Snow White movie a direct copy of the 1937 film?
No. While it retains many elements, the 2025 film adds new characters, new songs, and a rebel subplot that give Snow White a more active and leadership-oriented role.
When did production on Snow White 2025 begin?
Principal photography began in 2022 in the UK, following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project was first announced in 2016.
Who directed the 2025 Snow White live-action film?
The film was directed by Marc Webb, known for (500) Days of Summer and The Amazing Spider-Man series.
Daniel Mercer is Consumer Finance Editor at MarketUK.uk, covering personal finance, household costs, banking, mortgages, insurance, pensions and consumer rights.