Calls For Disney To Revise Snow White’s Story Due To Concerns Over ‘Non-Consensual Kissing’
There’s a growing call for Disney to update the storyline of Snow White to better reflect contemporary values.
First released in 1937, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs marked Disney’s debut feature-length animated film and has since become a beloved classic for many. Based on the Brothers Grimm’s German fairy tale, the film follows a princess who finds refuge with seven dwarfs after being driven away by her malevolent stepmother.
Although the U.S. Library of Congress has deemed the film “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” some viewers today believe it’s time for a modern reimagining.
Critics argue that some Disney classics, once cherished, are now seen in a more troubling light. One user remarked on social media, “I never realized how dark some scenes were when I was a kid.”
Another added, “Have you ever rewatched old Disney films and noticed how dark they actually were?”
A particular scene in Snow White has sparked considerable discussion.
The kiss shared between the prince and Snow White, which occurs near the film’s end, has been criticized by some as outdated and problematic. This scene, where the prince kisses Snow White in a moment of apparent death, is now viewed by some as sending a confusing message about consent.
Journalist Nichi Hodgson, speaking on Good Morning Britain, suggested that the kiss, which was not part of the original Brothers Grimm tale, could be problematic. “Disney has a responsibility. They make significant profits from their films, and these stories are among the first many children encounter,” Hodgson noted.
Even celebrities are weighing in. Kristen Bell discussed the scene with her children, questioning the appropriateness of a kiss without explicit consent.
However, not everyone agrees that the original film needs changing. Some argue that while discussing consent is important, blaming Disney for the romantic kiss may be misplaced. Others suggest that Snow White’s situation could be viewed differently, perhaps as a “kiss of life” rather than an issue of consent.
The debate intensified after Disneyland, California, updated the Snow White Enchanted Wish ride to include the kissing scene. Critics, including Julie Tremaine and Katie Dowd, have voiced concerns, stating that the scene perpetuates issues with consent.
Looking ahead, Rachel Zegler, who will portray Snow White in the upcoming remake, has hinted that the new film may approach the story differently. Although the original kiss scene remains unchanged, the 2025 remake is expected to take a fresh perspective on the narrative. Zegler, who previously discussed the film’s portrayal of romance, indicated in an interview that the new version might shift focus away from the prince’s role, potentially altering or even cutting his scenes.