Disney’s Snow White: From Animation to Live Action
When Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered in 1937, it made history as the first-ever feature-length animated film. Nearly nine decades later, Disney is reimagining the beloved fairytale in a live-action adaptation starring Rachel Zegler. While the heart of the story remains, the 2025 version introduces modern updates that reflect changing perspectives on storytelling and character development. Rachel Zegler steps into the role of Snow White, bringing a modern take on the character that leans more into independence than wishful thinking. She’s not just waiting for a prince she’s shaping her own destiny. The 1937 Evil Queen was one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Gal Gadot’s version brings all the glamour and wickedness, but with a bit more depth. In 1937, the Seven Dwarfs were some of Disney’s most recognizable characters, each with their own one-word personality trait: Sleepy, Grumpy, Happy, and so on. They were comic relief, emotional support, and unlikely heroes all in one. The 2025 version, however, takes a different route. Disney has shaken up the dwarfs’ portrayal, steering away from their classic animated charm. And then there’s the prince one of the biggest points of discussion. Rachel Zegler’s past comments about the original Snow White story being “creepy” sparked controversy, particularly her critique of the prince’s role. In response, the new adaptation gives him a significantly reduced presence. Instead of Snow White’s story revolving around romance, the focus shifts to her personal growth and leadership. The original Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was a technological marvel of its time, pioneering hand-drawn animation in a way no other film had done before. The 2025 version leans into live-action with CGI elements to bring the fairytale world to life. As for the music? The classic songs like Someday My Prince Will Come are still part of the story, but new songs have been added to reflect the film’s updated themes. Snow White remains a story about resilience, transformation, and the dangers of accepting a red apple from a stranger. But the way it’s told in 2025 is different from how it was in 1937. One thing’s for sure: this Snow White isn’t just waiting for a prince to wake her up.
Book vs. Film Adaptations: Movies That Got It Right
Adapting a book into a film is risky business. Sometimes, Hollywood fumbles the bag completely, and we pretend the movie never happened. But every once in a while, an adaptation comes along that gets it so right, you almost forget the book exists. And when those great ones hit the big screen at Filmhouse Cinemas? Chef’s kiss! Here are five films that absolutely delivered: 1. Dune (2021) Frank Herbert’s Dune is great. The kind of book that comes with a glossary because the world-building is just that intense. But Denis Villeneuve took on the challenge and gave us a cinematic spectacle. Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya are the perfect cast. The visuals? Stunning. The storytelling? Immersive. The soundtrack? You felt it in your chest. Watching Dune on the big screen was the only way to experience it properly because let’s be honest, no TV at home could ever do Arrakis justice. 2. Black Panther (2018) Yes, I know. Black Panther is based on a comic, not a novel but tell me it didn’t feel like an epic African fantasy book brought to life. Ryan Coogler built Wakanda with love, from futuristic tech to rich cultural influences, and Chadwick Boseman gave us a hero for the ages. Seeing this at Filmhouse was something else, the pride and the vibes – it was a movement! 3. The Hunger Games (2012) If you read The Hunger Games, you know how intense that first book was. Suzanne Collins had us stressed, and the movie did not disappoint. Jennifer Lawrence was the perfect Katniss, the tension in the arena was real, and the way they brought Panem to life? Beautifully unsettling. Watching it in the cinema made every arrow shot feel personal. 4. It (2017) Stephen King’s ‘It is legendary,’ and this adaptation? Whew. Firstly, Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise? Pure nightmare fuel. Secondly, watching this horror film in the cinema made it ten times worse (or better, depending on how much you enjoy being terrified). There were actual screams in the audience. 5. The Great Gatsby (2013) Baz Luhrmann was like, “Let’s make Gatsby louder, shinier, and extra in every way possible.” And honestly? It worked. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic got the full spectacle treatment, and Leonardo DiCaprio casted as Gatsby. The costumes, the drama, and the over-the-top party scenes were decadent, and every second was amazing. Some Books Are Just Meant for the Big Screen Not every adaptation gets it right but when a film respects its source material and brings something fresh to the table. That’s when the magic happens.