Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, released in 1937, is Disney’s first full-length animated feature. This cinematic milestone has since become a treasured childhood favorite throughout several generations.
The film, based on the Brothers Grimm’s German classic, follows a princess who, after being exiled by her cruel stepmother, finds refuge and camaraderie with seven dwarfs. Despite its age, the picture has been designated as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the US Library of Congress. As reported by the Los Angeles Times. However, some modern-day audiences are demanding changes to bring the picture in line with contemporary values and sensibilities.
Calls For Renovation
Several Disney masterpieces, which were originally just enjoyable, are now evaluated critically. According to one social media user, “As a kid, I never knew how dark and sinister some scenes were.” Another person shared this perspective, tweeting, “You ever go back and watch some of the Disney animated movies that came out when we were kids and realized how dark and not really for kids they were?”
Controversial Kiss
A specific scene in Snow White has become a focal point of debate. In the movie’s climactic moment, the prince kisses Snow White, seemingly lifeless, out of heartbreak. This scene, some argue, is outdated and problematic. Journalist and broadcaster Nichi Hodgson, appearing on the U.K. daytime TV show Good Morning Britain, criticized the sequence for sending a confusing message about consent. She pointed out that Disney added this kiss scene, which was not part of the original Brothers Grimm story.
“Disney has a moral duty. They can be an ethical business if they want to be. They make billions every year from their films. Children watch their films from a very young age, and they are some of the first stories they imbibe.” Hodgson stated.
Celeb Views
Celebrities have also weighed in on the subject. Kristen Bell, an actress, expressed her concern with the kissing scene to her children. In an interview with Parents magazine, she stated, “Don’t you think it’s strange that the prince embraces Snow White without her permission? Because you can’t kiss someone while they’re asleep!”
Public Reaction
Public opinion remains split. Some argue that the original tale should not be modified. Another individual said, “I think it’s great we’re opening up the conversation about consent, but people blaming Disney – a romantic kiss at the end of a movie isn’t the reason teenagers become confused about consent.” Another said, “It’s a fairytale, leave Disney alone.” An alternative viewpoint said, “I’d argue that Snow White would readily give her consent to be kissed since not kissing her would condemn her to eternal sleep,” while another simply stated, “Why not look at it as the kiss of life?”
Disneyland’s Rides Makeover
The debate was revived when Disneyland in California overhauled the Snow White Enchanted Wish ride, which now ends with the prince’s kiss. Reviewers Julie Tremaine and Katie Dowd of SFGate disliked the inclusion, claiming it exacerbates the “movie’s biggest problem.”
“Haven’t we already agreed that consent in early Disney movies is a major issue?” The review raised questions. “That teaching kids that kissing, when it hasn’t been established if both parties are willing to engage, is not okay?”
Looking for the future: The Snow White sequel.
While the iconic kiss sequence from the original film stays unchanged, the planned Snow White remake, which is set to be released in 2025, promises a fresh approach. Rachel Zegler, who will portray the lead, expressed her thoughts on the original film in an interview with Extra TV. She called Snow White’s relationship with the prince as “weird” and suggested that the remake will not focus on their romance. Zegler laughed about editing the prince’s sequences, saying, “It’s Hollywood, a baby.”
As Disney evolves, combining nostalgia with current ideals is a difficult but necessary challenge.
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