Amid Controversy Over Latinx Lead Actress
'Snow White' Loses Top Box Office Spot in Second Week
Rachel Zegler attended the "Snow White" premiere held on the 15th in Los Angeles, California, USA. Photo by Reuters, Yonhap News.
The live-action adaptation of Disney's 'Baekseolgongju' (Snow White), which sparked casting controversies, failed at the box office in North America, dropping from first place in its second week of release.
On the 30th (local time), AP News and Hollywood outlet Variety, citing industry estimates including Comscore data, reported that 'Baekseolgongju' earned $14.2 million (approximately 20.9 billion KRW) in ticket sales over the past weekend (28th-30th), falling to second place at the North American box office. The second weekend revenue dropped sharply by 66% compared to the first week.
'Baekseolgongju' is a blockbuster with a production budget exceeding $250 million (about 367.8 billion KRW). It opened on the 21st in 4,200 theaters across North America and earned only $66.8 million (about 98.3 billion KRW) over ten days. Including regions outside North America, the worldwide revenue stands at approximately $143.1 million (about 210.5 billion KRW).
The film was embroiled in various controversies from the early stages of production. Notably, the original Snow White character is described as having 'ebony black hair and skin as white as snow,' but Latinx actress Rachel Zegler, who has a tan complexion, was cast, sparking accusations of 'damaging the original.' In response to criticism that she was unsuitable for the role, Zegler stated, "I will not bleach my skin for the role," which further fueled the controversy.
Some critics argued that Disney prioritized Political Correctness (PC) over preserving the original story. Zegler's past interviews also ignited debate. In one interview, she said, "People say our movie will be a PC Snow White, and yes, because that is what is needed."
Zegler also drew backlash from original fans by commenting that the Disney animated original, where Snow White falls in love with a man stalking her, was "weird." After Donald Trump was elected U.S. president in November last year, Zegler posted harsh insults against Trump and his supporters on Instagram, which caused further backlash.
U.S. media outlets noted that for 'Baekseolgongju' to recoup its production costs, it needs long-term box office success. However, with another family-targeted film, 'Minecraft Movie,' set to release next week, it is expected to be difficult for 'Baekseolgongju' to reclaim the top spot. Disney is also struggling after the failure of 'The Little Mermaid,' which featured a Black female lead. Disney's stock, which peaked at $113.8 on February 28 at the New York Stock Exchange, has since plunged, closing at $98.07 on the 28th.
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