Disney’s live-action Snow White, featuring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, benefited from a noticeable 55.4% leap on Tuesday Discount Day, adding $3.9 million on the North American box office. Still, this is compared to other Disney properties at the equivalent stage in their run—such as Maleficent ($4 million with an increase of 77.7%) and Dumbo ($4.7 million with a lift of 63.2%)—and, by comparison, its performance has been disappointing. Five days after release, Snow White’s homegrown revenues total $48.8 million, a troubling total considering its huge budget.
An Expensive Production With an Uphill Battle
With a production cost of $250 million (not counting marketing expenses), Snow White requires a minimum of $550 million just to break even. It appears a tall order, especially with Warner Bros.’ A Minecraft Movie, featuring Jason Momoa and Jack Black, opening on April 4. The film is expected to start between $55 and $75 million, which will surely impact Snow White’s already dipping box office figures.
Also Read: The Wait is Over! Disney unveils final Snow White trailer and Pre- Sales are now LIVE
Pre-Release Controversies and PR Challenges
The problems for the film started well before it came out. Disney was criticized for casting a Latina woman to play the “fairest of them all,” and then Zegler’s comments condemning the original animation. Then, Gal Gadot’s outspoken Zionist sentiments added fuel to the fire, causing Disney to have to spend additional funds on security and social media response, adding further to expenses.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Although its poor beginning, Disney is hoping Snow White might take the path of Mufasa: The Lion King, which was dismissed at first but went on to rake in more than $700 million. But with its poor showing and upcoming competition, the future does not look so magical.
