The beloved tale of Snow White is set to captivate audiences once again as Disney unveils the first trailer for its highly anticipated live-action adaptation. Starring Rachel Zegler as the iconic princess and Gal Gadot as the sinister Evil Queen, this reimagining of the classic story promises to deliver both the enchanting magic and dark intrigue that fans have come to love. The release of the trailer has already sparked excitement and speculation, offering a glimpse of the visual splendor and powerful performances that are sure to define this latest Disney venture.

In this article, we’ll explore the first look at the 2025 Snow White film, diving into the performances of its leading stars, the visual style, and the ways in which this adaptation seeks to honor the original while bringing something fresh to the table.

Rachel Zegler: A New Snow White for a New Generation

Rachel Zegler, best known for her breakout role in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, steps into the iconic role of Snow White with a grace and charisma that has already won her legions of fans. As the first Latina actress to portray the character in a major film adaptation, Zegler’s casting marks a significant moment in Disney’s ongoing efforts to bring more diversity to its classic tales.

The trailer showcases Zegler’s Snow White as both vulnerable and strong—a young woman who, despite being targeted by the Evil Queen, retains her inherent goodness and courage. Her singing voice, which captivated audiences in West Side Story, is once again on full display, bringing new life to the film’s classic songs. Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White is expected to blend the character’s traditional innocence with a modern sense of agency, making her a more relatable and dynamic heroine for today’s audiences.

In interviews, Zegler has spoken about the responsibility of taking on such an iconic role and the importance of bringing authenticity to her performance. “Snow White is a character who means so much to so many people,” Zegler shared. “I wanted to honor that while also bringing something new to the role—something that reflects who I am and the world we live in today.”

Gal Gadot: A Villainous Turn for the Evil Queen

While Rachel Zegler’s Snow White is poised to capture hearts, it’s Gal Gadot’s turn as the Evil Queen that has everyone talking. Known for her portrayal of strong, heroic characters like Wonder Woman, Gadot’s transformation into one of Disney’s most iconic villains is a striking departure from her previous roles.

The trailer gives viewers a tantalizing glimpse of Gadot’s Evil Queen—glamorous, commanding, and chillingly sinister. Dressed in dark, opulent costumes that highlight her regal yet malevolent nature, Gadot’s Queen is a force to be reckoned with. Her performance promises to explore the deeper, more complex motivations behind the Queen’s jealousy and cruelty, adding layers to a character that has often been portrayed as a one-dimensional villain.

Gadot has expressed her excitement about diving into the darker aspects of the Queen’s character. “Playing the Evil Queen is a dream come true,” Gadot said in a recent interview. “She’s a character with so many layers, and it’s been fascinating to explore what makes her tick. She’s more than just ‘evil’—she’s a woman driven by fear, insecurity, and a desperate need for validation.”

The dynamic between Zegler’s Snow White and Gadot’s Evil Queen is expected to be one of the film’s highlights, with the two actresses bringing their own unique energies to these legendary characters.

A Visual Feast: The Look of Snow White

From the first frames of the trailer, it’s clear that Disney’s Snow White is a visual spectacle. Directed by [Director’s Name], the film embraces a rich, vibrant color palette that pays homage to the original 1937 animated classic while also introducing a modern sensibility. The lush forests, majestic castles, and magical elements are all brought to life with stunning detail, creating a world that feels both familiar and entirely new.

The film’s production design, helmed by [Production Designer’s Name], draws heavily on the Germanic roots of the Snow White tale, with dark woods, gothic architecture, and intricate costumes that reflect the story’s fairytale origins. Yet, there’s also a contemporary edge to the film’s aesthetic, with sleek, cinematic visuals that are sure to resonate with today’s audiences.

Costume designer [Costume Designer’s Name] has crafted looks that balance tradition with innovation. Snow White’s iconic dress has been reimagined with subtle updates that make it both timeless and fresh, while the Evil Queen’s wardrobe is a masterclass in villainous glamour, with bold silhouettes and rich fabrics that command attention.

The special effects, particularly in scenes involving the Queen’s magic and the iconic Magic Mirror, are state-of-the-art, enhancing the story’s fantastical elements without overshadowing the characters. The result is a film that looks poised to be as visually captivating as it is emotionally resonant.

Music: A Blend of the Classic and the New

Music has always been a cornerstone of Disney’s animated films, and Snow White is no exception. The live-action adaptation features a mix of beloved songs from the original film, alongside new compositions that are expected to resonate with a modern audience.

Composer [Composer’s Name], who has worked on some of Disney’s most recent musical hits, has taken on the task of reimagining the original score while creating new pieces that fit seamlessly into the film’s narrative. The trailer hints at some of these musical moments, with Zegler’s rendition of “Someday My Prince Will Come” providing a nostalgic yet fresh take on the classic.

In addition to the traditional songs, the film is expected to introduce original music that reflects the characters’ emotional journeys. Zegler’s Snow White, in particular, will have new musical numbers that delve deeper into her character’s thoughts and feelings, offering audiences a more intimate look at her inner world.

The balance between old and new in the film’s music is a reflection of the overall approach to this adaptation—honoring the legacy of the original while making it accessible and meaningful for contemporary viewers.

A Modern Take on a Timeless Story

Disney’s decision to remake Snow White is part of its broader strategy of reimagining its classic animated films for a new generation. While the core story remains the same—a young princess is pursued by a jealous queen and finds refuge with seven dwarfs—the live-action version is expected to introduce new themes and character dynamics that resonate with today’s audience.

One of the most significant updates is the portrayal of Snow White herself. In the original 1937 film, Snow White was characterized by her innocence, beauty, and kindness—traits that are still present in Zegler’s portrayal. However, this new Snow White is also shown to be more independent and resourceful, taking a more active role in her own story rather than simply waiting to be rescued.

The film also explores the psychological depth of the Evil Queen, offering insight into her motivations and the insecurities that drive her actions. This more nuanced portrayal of the villain adds complexity to the story, making it less about good versus evil and more about the dangers of envy, fear, and the pursuit of unattainable perfection.

Additionally, the relationship between Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is likely to be reexamined in this adaptation. While the trailer does not reveal much about these beloved characters, their role in the story is expected to reflect modern sensibilities, with a focus on themes of friendship, loyalty, and solidarity.

Anticipation and Expectations: What Fans Are Saying

The release of the Snow White trailer has generated significant buzz among fans and critics alike. Social media has been abuzz with reactions, with many praising the casting choices and the film’s visual style. Rachel Zegler’s portrayal of Snow White has been particularly well-received, with fans applauding her ability to bring both innocence and strength to the role.

Gal Gadot’s turn as the Evil Queen has also garnered attention, with many excited to see how she will interpret one of Disney’s most iconic villains. The trailer’s glimpses of Gadot’s performance suggest a portrayal that is both glamorous and menacing, a combination that has fans eager to see more.

However, with great anticipation comes great expectations. Disney’s live-action adaptations have been met with mixed reviews in the past, with some audiences loving the new interpretations and others feeling that the originals were better left untouched. The pressure is on for Snow White to deliver a film that satisfies both longtime fans of the original and new viewers who are experiencing the story for the first time.

Critics have also pointed out the challenges of adapting a story like Snow White, which has been told and retold in countless forms over the decades. The key to this adaptation’s success will be finding the right balance between honoring the original and offering something new and relevant.

The Legacy of Snow White: A Story for the Ages

Snow White is not just another Disney film; it is the cornerstone of the Disney legacy. As the first full-length animated feature in history, the 1937 original set the standard for animated storytelling and established the template for the Disney Princess formula that has been beloved by generations.

The story of Snow White itself, however, predates Disney by centuries, originating in European folklore and being immortalized by the Brothers Grimm. Its themes of beauty, jealousy, and the triumph of good over evil have universal appeal, which is why it has endured for so long.

With this live-action adaptation, Disney is not just retelling a familiar story—it is contributing to the ongoing evolution of Snow White as a cultural touchstone. By bringing in diverse talent like Rachel Zegler and reinterpreting the story for a modern audience, Disney is ensuring that Snow White remains relevant and impactful for years to come.

This film is also part of a broader conversation about how classic stories are adapted and who gets to tell them. In casting a Latina actress as Snow White, Disney is acknowledging the need for greater representation in its films and taking a step toward creating a more inclusive cinematic landscape.

The first trailer for Disney’s live-action Snow White has set the stage for what promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film. With Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot leading the cast, the movie is poised to bring new life to one of Disney’s most beloved stories, offering a fresh take on the characters while staying true to the magic that made the original a classic.

As audiences eagerly await the film’s release, there is no doubt that Snow White will once again capture the hearts of viewers around the world, reminding us all of the timeless power of fairytales and the enduring appeal of Disney’s storytelling.

Whether it becomes a new favorite or simply a respectful homage to the original, this live-action Snow White is sure to leave its mark on the legacy of Disney’s filmography—and on the millions of fans who cherish these stories.