
That isn’t to say that Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is bad. There is no denying that the movie is not only a beloved classic, but also had a massive impact on the world of animation. Yet, certain elements of the movie have aged less well than others. The most notable of these is Snow White herself. Disney’s original princess is easy to love, but doesn’t quite prove herself to be much more than a maiden in need of saving. Luckily, 2025’s Snow White reinvents the princess in admirable ways.
Zegler’s Snow White Is Visually Better Than The Original
Snow White Has New & Improved Outfits






One of the first things audiences may notice when watching 2025’s Snow White is that the visuals are far better than what was available in 1937. Obviously, there is a vast difference between 2-D animation and live-action, but the difference is deeper than that. Zegler’s Snow White comes to life in a way that exceeds the original animation. Her face and her movements, in particular, are more human and emotive than those of the cartoon.
On top of that, Zegler’s Snow White honors and updates the Disney princess via clothing. In the first segment of the film, she wears a pink, patterned dress that is far more detailed than the original piece Snow White wore in 1937. Even better is her iconic yellow and blue dress, which has a sparkly tulle skirt and various updated details, from ribbons to fabrics. In this way, Zegler’s Snow White is more visually striking, and adds depth to the iconic outfits that audiences were already expecting.
2025’s Snow White Has A Deeper Backstory
Snow White’s Connection To Her Father Is Compelling






Another update that viewers will discover right away in the Snow White remake is the protagonist’s new backstory. Originally, Snow White is characterized as a princess whose parents died and who is now under the thumb of her cruel stepmother. This situation still stands in 2025, but has some added depth. Namely, Snow White’s parents were beloved rulers who instilled in her ideals of bravery and fairness. These themes follow Snow White throughout her entire story and give her a motivation that the animated princess did not have.
Zegler Gives Snow White A More Modern Voice
Snow White’s New Songs Add To Her Story






One element of 2025’s Snow White that can be totally attributed to Zegler herself is her voice. Based on Zegler’s past roles in West Side Story and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, it is no surprise that Zegler has an incredible voice. However, in the context of Snow White, it is really notable. Zegler updates the operatic soprano of Snow White to something more modern and inspiring, while also maintaining certain elements of Adriana Caselotti’s performance. Now, Snow White’s songs feel more like tunes that audiences can sing along to a la “Let It Go.”
On the other hand, Zegler’s main song is “Waiting on a Wish,” a ballad that is more focused on Snow White herself and her desire to be brave rather than waiting for a prince.
Snow White’s Romance With Jonathan Is Improved
2025’s Snow White Maintains True Love’s Kiss In A Good Way






When considering a Snow White remake, many likely expected Disney to update Snow White’s romance with the prince, which had little to no development. This change did occur, and in a very interesting way. Rather than being a prince who saves Snow White, Jonathan is a thief who is actually saved by Snow White, and then vice versa. The two come from vastly different backgrounds and belief systems, but over time, realize they want the same things for their people. Their connection grows more subtly and with more conflict.
One element of the original that 2025’s Snow White did keep was the kiss. After Snow White eats the poisoned apple and goes into a coma, it is revealed that the only thing that will save her is true love’s kiss. Jonathan arrives, unaware of her condition, and in a moment of sadness, gives her a kiss, unexpectedly waking her. With their deepened backstory, this kiss is much less creepy and more charged with emotion. Plus, because Snow White changes a lot about the main character and her love interest, keeping this scene ended up being pivotal.
2025’s Snow White Adds A Special Scene With Her & Dopey
Snow White’s Kindness Is Also Wise






In terms of character relationships, another exciting new connection Snow White makes is with Dopey. After the other seven dwarves laugh at Dopey, he storms out and Snow White follows. She tries to understand why he doesn’t speak, and when she discovers that it is fear holding him back, she suggests he try whistling instead to let his emotions be known. This puts new life into Dopey and cleverly leads into “Whistle While You Work.”
Aside from the fact that Snow White and Dopey’s new relationship is sweet, it also shows that Snow White is not just kind. This is certainly part of her character, but her kindness is also shot through with wisdom. She takes time to listen to others and uses her own experience to try and solve problems. She approaches Dopey not with judgment but with curiosity and a genuine desire to help. In the original, audiences didn’t really get to see this kind of thoughtful interplay between Snow White and others.
Zegler’s Snow White Is Less Traditional
Snow White Has More Agency But Maintains Her Original Character






The Snow White remake gives Snow White more agency and desires, and rather than putting a sword into her hand, they give her power by making her inspirational, steadfast, and true to her morals.
To some, 2025’s Snow White may not seem modern enough. She does not don armor or fight anyone. She is still saved by true love’s kiss. However, if these elements had been changed, then she would not be Snow White anymore, but a completely different character. The Snow White remake gives Snow White more agency and desires, and rather than putting a sword into her hand, they give her power by making her inspirational, steadfast, and true to her morals.
2025’s Snow White Gives Her A Stronger Purpose
Snow White Learns More Over The Course Of Her Story






2025’s Snow White Rotten Tomatoes Scores
Critics – 43%
Audience – 74%
An added bonus to Snow White’s new purpose is that it doesn’t come to her right away. At first, Snow White believes that she can fix her kingdom simply by making them apple pies. While this gesture would have been kind, it wouldn’t actually fix anything, and Jonathan teaches her this. Therefore, by the end of Snow White, the protagonist realizes that she will need to make a more active stand against the Evil Queen.
Snow White Takes Control Of Her Own Kingdom
Snow White Has A Clear Future










Ultimately, 2025’s Snow White gives the character a clearer past, present, and future. Audiences come to understand her better and are given more time to see her connections with others grow. Though not every element of the remake is great, and the critiques are valid, Snow White manages to improve on its character in marked and important ways.