Los Angeles, California – The disappointing opening of the live-action remake of the classic 1937 film Snow White stirred concern at Disney, with estimates falling below expectations at $43 million domestically. Globally, the film’s box office numbers underperformed, tallying at $87.3 million instead of the projected $100 million.
Weekend figures released on Monday revealed even lower domestic earnings of $42.2 million, with global numbers following suit. Despite making $43.9 million overseas, the film’s global start totaled $86.1 million based on Comscore data.
Snow White faces potential struggles due to its substantial production budget of $270 million plus an additional $100 million allocated for marketing costs, placing the film at risk of falling short of the $300 million or $400 million global earnings needed for financial success.
In comparison to other Disney live-action remakes, Snow White received mixed reviews and a B+ CinemaScore from audiences, contrasting with the typical high grades these films garner. The movie was also shadowed by controversies surrounding lead actress Rachel Zegler’s political comments and the backlash from conservative groups labeling the film as “Snow Woke.”
Despite concerns of a boycott in red-leaning areas, data suggests that general audience response does not align with the political dynamics surrounding the film. While the budget for Snow White increased due to various factors like COVID protocols and creative adjustments, the film’s true profitability lies in its long-term performance in theaters, streaming platforms, and other revenue streams.
The live-action adaptation of Snow White faces challenges in recouping its investment amidst a changing landscape for Disney princess remakes. As the studio navigates the aftermath of Snow White’s lackluster debut, industry experts analyze the film’s potential for success through its longevity in theaters and various revenue streams beyond box office numbers.