Reimagining Snow White with Marc Webb’s Vision
Once upon a time—in December 1937—Walt Disney enchanted the world with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, launching the studio into animation history. Nearly a century later, director Marc Webb revisits that classic with a fresh perspective in Disney’s live-action reimagining of Snow White, debuting in theaters on March 21.
This new musical adventure stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White, Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen, and Andrew Burnap as Jonathan, a new character inspired by early Disney concepts. But rather than starting from scratch, Webb grounded the film in the original Walt Disney vision, beginning his creative journey at the Disney Archives.
Digging Into the Archives
Before filming even began at London’s Pinewood Studios, Webb visited the Walt Disney Archives in search of inspiration. That visit offered more than nostalgia—it shaped the creative DNA of the film. Among the discoveries that sparked fresh ideas was an early sketch of the original prince trapped in a dungeon, a scene that never made it to the 1937 film.
Webb saw this moment as a jumping-off point for the character of Jonathan, a love interest with a more developed backstory. “It felt like we were reaching into the past and connecting with the incredibly talented animators who had come before us,” he shared.
Kindness, Courage, and a New Perspective
While the original Snow White was celebrated for her kindness and optimism, Webb saw an opportunity to evolve the character without losing her essence. “She’s brave. She finds the best in people,” he explained. “Snow White is a reminder that there’s real value in being kind and having good faith.”
This balance between tradition and innovation defines Webb’s approach. His vision expands the narrative while keeping the heart of Walt Disney’s storytelling intact.
A Deeper Connection to Disney History
Webb’s trip to the Archives didn’t just influence the script—it also shaped the music and costume design. Academy Award® winner Sandy Powell, known for her work on Cinderella (2015), studied original costume renderings and period references to create updated yet historically rooted designs.
Composer Jeff Morrow even got to record with some of the original props used in “Silly Song” and “Whistle While You Work.” Webb recalled the magical moment: “We actually got to play the old jugs used in the original recordings. You can hear them in the film!”
A Magical Musical Experience
With original songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and moments of joy pulled directly from Walt’s original storyboards, Snow White promises an emotional, immersive experience. “It’s like going to a concert or a live show,” Webb said of the finished film. “Hearing the cheers, sighs, and laughter during the premiere—it was humbling.”
As Snow White steps into a new era, it carries the legacy of Walt Disney forward with care, creativity, and reverence. This reimagining of Snow White proves that classic stories still have the power to inspire new generations—especially when told with heart.
