In a surprising turn of events, Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Snow White” has experienced a staggering 68% drop in box office revenue during its second week, earning approximately $14.2 million. This significant decline has seen the film slip to second place, overtaken by the new release “Working Man,” which garnered an estimated $15.2 million in its opening weekend. The performance of “Snow White” has raised eyebrows, particularly given its hefty production budget of around $270 million, suggesting that the film may struggle to recoup its costs.
As of now, “Snow White” has grossed over $100 million worldwide, with domestic earnings at approximately $56.3 million. Industry analysts estimate that the film would need to reach between $500 million and $550 million to break even, making its current trajectory concerning. The film’s critical reception has not helped its cause; it holds a 41% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, compared to “Working Man,” which boasts an impressive 89% audience rating.
Controversy surrounding lead actress Rachel Zegler has further complicated the film’s reception. Her past comments, particularly those perceived as disparaging toward the original animated classic, have drawn criticism. Additionally, debates over the film’s portrayal of iconic characters, including the dwarves, have sparked backlash among audiences, with many feeling that the film has strayed too far from its beloved source material.
The upcoming release of “Minecraft,” featuring popular stars such as Jason Momoa and Jack Black, is expected to further detract from “Snow White’s” box office performance. As the competition intensifies, industry insiders are already speculating that “Snow White” may face insurmountable losses, potentially exceeding $300 million.
The reaction to “Snow White” serves as a cautionary tale for Disney regarding its strategy of revisiting classic tales. As audiences grow weary of live-action remakes, the studio faces an uphill battle to reclaim its once-unassailable position in the box office.