Disney's live-action adaptation of Snow White, featuring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, is expected to generate a modest $45 million in its domestic opening weekend. This figure aligns with Tim Burton’s Dumbo, which was deemed a significant disappointment. Despite the film's potential to lead the box office frame, it faces challenges such as a B+ CinemaScore, casting controversies involving political stances, and competition from other Disney princess remakes like Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella, which had stronger openings. Additionally, other films debuting this weekend, including The Alto Knights and Magazine Dreams, are projected to perform poorly.
The live-action Snow White is anticipated to earn around $100 million globally, yet struggles persist due to mixed audience reactions and limited appeal among younger demographics compared to more recent animated classics. Meanwhile, Robert De Niro's mob drama The Alto Knights and Jonathan Majors' boxing film Magazine Dreams face underwhelming starts, highlighting a tough market for new releases.
Snow White's Mixed Reception Amidst Controversy
Disney's latest live-action remake of Snow White has sparked debate even before its release. Directed by Marc Webb, the film features Rachel Zegler in the titular role and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen. While it aims to replicate the success of previous Disney remakes, it has encountered criticism and controversy. Audience scores indicate a lukewarm reception, marked by a B+ CinemaScore, contrasting sharply with the A ratings typical of Disney adaptations. Casting decisions have also drawn scrutiny, particularly concerning cultural and political sensitivities.
This version of Snow White stands out as one of Disney's rare live-action remakes receiving less enthusiastic feedback. Delays and disputes surrounding the casting process have added layers of complexity. Critics argue that the film fails to resonate deeply with modern audiences, especially younger generations unfamiliar with the original 1937 animation. In comparison, Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella connected more effectively with contemporary viewers, achieving higher box office numbers. Consequently, while Snow White may dominate the current box office frame, its long-term financial prospects remain uncertain amidst these challenges.
Weak Performances from Other New Releases
Besides Snow White, two other films are making their debut this weekend but are unlikely to create much buzz. Robert De Niro stars in The Alto Knights, a mob movie directed by Barry Levinson. This project, greenlit early in the Warner Bros. Discovery era, portrays infamous New York City mob bosses Frank Costello and Vito Genovese through De Niro's dual roles. However, projections suggest an opening gross of merely $3 million, reflecting low audience interest.
Similarly, Jonathan Majors' hoped-for comeback vehicle, Magazine Dreams, seems destined for failure. This boxing drama, initially acquired by Searchlight Pictures but later picked up by Briarcliff Entertainment after Majors faced legal issues, is projected to earn less than $900,000 across approximately 800 theaters. Both films illustrate the difficulties filmmakers encounter when trying to capture public attention in today's competitive cinematic landscape. Their lackluster performances underline the importance of strong marketing strategies and alignment with current audience preferences to ensure box office success.