Disney’s live-action Snow White has been embroiled in controversy since its announcement, and recent actions by IMAX have only amplified the discourse. For the first time, IMAX disabled the comments section on the official YouTube trailer, signaling an attempt to control the conversation around the film. The decision raises questions about corporate censorship, audience backlash, and the evolving relationship between Hollywood, social issues, and public reception.

The Snow White Controversy: Casting, Narrative, and Political Statements

At the center of the Snow White controversy is the casting of Rachel Zegler in the lead role. Traditionally depicted as having “skin as white as snow,” the casting of Zegler, who is of Colombian and Polish descent, has sparked significant backlash. Critics argue that the reimagining strays too far from the source material, while supporters see it as a progressive step toward inclusivity. However, some detractors have gone so far as to label the film’s lead character as “Snowbrown,” a derogatory term used by online critics who oppose the casting decision. Beyond the casting controversy, Zegler herself has fueled further debate due to her vocal political stance. She has publicly expressed support for the phrase “Free Palestine,” which, while widely used as an advocacy slogan, has also been co-opted by radical groups, including Hamas. The 1988 Hamas Charter explicitly calls for the destruction of Israel, leading some to argue that the phrase is inherently tied to anti-Israel sentiment. As a result, Zegler’s political alignment has alienated certain audiences, particularly those who perceive her statements as supportive of extremist positions. This controversy is heightened by the fact that Israeli actress Gal Gadot plays the Evil Queen in the film, adding an additional layer of tension.

By turning off comments, IMAX ensures that the public discourse remains more controlled, preventing an online firestorm that could further harm the film’s reputation. Additionally, the decision aligns with Hollywood’s broader efforts to distance itself from politically charged controversies.

Rachel Zegler’s Advocacy for ‘Free Palestine’ and Its Controversial Meaning

Rachel Zegler has been an open supporter of Palestine during the Israel-Hamas war, frequently using her social media platforms to advocate for the “Free Palestine” movement. While some view her activism as a call for human rights, others argue that the phrase “Free Palestine”—especially when paired with the slogan “From the River to the Sea”—is rooted in calls for the elimination of the State of Israel. The phrase “From the River to the Sea” refers to the area between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing all of present-day Israel and the Palestinian territories. The slogan has been used by Hamas and other groups to advocate for the dissolution of Israel, making it a highly contentious phrase that is perceived by many as a call for the destruction of the Jewish state. Zegler’s repeated use of this phrase has further polarized public opinion. While supporters argue that she is advocating for Palestinian rights and an end to occupation, critics contend that such rhetoric aligns with extremist ideologies. Given the highly charged nature of the ongoing conflict, Zegler’s comments have only intensified the backlash surrounding Snow White, leading to further division among audiences.

IMAX’s Decision to Disable Comments: Controlling the Narrative or Avoiding Fallout?

IMAX’s move to disable comments on the Snow White trailer is unprecedented, especially for a film backed by a major studio like Disney. The decision reflects the increasingly common industry practice of limiting public engagement when a film faces widespread criticism. IMAX and Disney likely sought to prevent a flood of negative comments, including political debates, racial disputes, and broader criticisms of Hollywood’s direction. This move also follows a growing trend where studios preemptively limit interaction to protect their brand. In recent years, films that sparked cultural or political debates, such as The Little Mermaid (2023) and The Marvels (2023), saw their trailers flooded with negative comments. By turning off comments, IMAX ensures that the public discourse remains more controlled, preventing an online firestorm that could further harm the film’s reputation. Additionally, the decision aligns with Hollywood’s broader efforts to distance itself from politically charged controversies. Studios have increasingly become wary of allowing actors’ political statements to overshadow their projects. In Zegler’s case, her involvement in geopolitical discussions—especially those related to Israel and Palestine—has created an uncomfortable situation for Disney, a company that prefers to maintain a family-friendly image. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East drawing heightened global attention, the Snow White controversy risks alienating multiple demographics, making IMAX’s decision to disable comments a calculated effort to limit damage.

Rachel Zegler has been an open supporter of Palestine during the Israel-Hamas war, frequently using her social media platforms to advocate for the “Free Palestine” movement. While some view her activism as a call for human rights, others argue that the phrase “Free Palestine”—especially when paired with the slogan “From the River to the Sea”—is rooted in calls for the elimination of the State of Israel.

Why Do We Go to See the Movie on IMAX?

Despite the controversy surrounding Snow White, there are still reasons audiences may choose to see the movie on IMAX. For many, the primary motivation is to support Gal Gadot, a beloved actress known for her role as Wonder Woman. Given the tensions between Zegler and Gadot’s respective stances, some viewers may see this as an opportunity to rally behind Gadot while assessing the film firsthand. Additionally, curiosity plays a significant role. With the widespread backlash, many moviegoers want to judge for themselves whether the film is as bad as critics say. While some anticipate a disappointing adaptation, others remain hopeful that IMAX’s high-quality visuals and sound will enhance the experience, regardless of the surrounding controversy.

Despite the controversy surrounding Snow White, there are still reasons audiences may choose to see the movie on IMAX. For many, the primary motivation is to support Gal Gadot, a beloved actress known for her role as Wonder Woman.

So Bottom Line, Should You Watch It?

Well, we watched it and went outside the theater after an hour. This movie is BAD! Very bad! So pass! The film suffers from a lack of compelling storytelling, uninspired performances, and misguided creative choices. Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White feels disconnected, with a lack of emotional depth and charm that made the original character beloved. The adaptation also fails to capture the magic and timelessness of the classic tale, replacing it with a politically driven agenda that alienates both traditional Disney fans and general audiences. Additionally, the pacing is sluggish, and the visuals—while enhanced in IMAX—fail to compensate for the film’s overall lack of substance. The chemistry between the characters is weak, and the reimagining of core story elements does more harm than good. It becomes apparent that this film is more about pushing a narrative than telling a compelling story. Ultimately, Snow White serves as yet another example of how Hollywood’s attempts at modernizing classics can backfire when they prioritize messaging over quality storytelling. If you value your time and money, it’s best to skip this one.

Well, we watched it and went outside the theater after an hour. This movie is BAD! Very bad! So pass! If you value your time and money, it’s best to skip this one.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Hollywood and Online Engagement

The Snow White controversy is a case study in how modern Hollywood navigates backlash, representation, and political discourse. IMAX’s decision to disable comments illustrates the industry’s growing reluctance to engage with criticism, opting instead to silence discussion. However, such actions often backfire, leading to further accusations of corporate censorship and fueling alternative discussions on other platforms. As Hollywood continues to grapple with these challenges, studios and distribution companies like IMAX will need to find a balance between inclusivity, free speech, and brand protection. The Snow White controversy underscores the complexities of modern filmmaking, where artistic choices and political statements can intersect in unpredictable ways. Whether Disney’s latest adaptation succeeds or flounders, one thing is certain: the discourse surrounding it will not be easily silenced.