Rachel Zegler Praised by Critics as a ‘Shining Supernova’ in the Live-Action Remake of Snow White: ‘Pure Disney Magic’

Initial audience reactions are in for Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot’s live-action remake of Disney’s Snow White.

The new version of the classic, which is officially in theaters on March 21, had its premiere in Los Angeles on Saturday, March 15, and the first reactions landed on social media afterward. (The embargo for full reviews from critics will be lifted on Wednesday, March 19, at 3 p.m. EST.)

“Rachel Zegler is a shining supernova in #SnowWhite, beautifully embodying the graceful, gentle nature of the OG Disney princess,” wrote Variety‘s Katcy Stephan. “It’s a visual feast with show-stopping new musical numbers and, of course, dozens of enchanting animated animals. The screenplay wisely gives its heroine newfound depth through her fervent desire to become the leader her father believed she could be, and a love story that’s sweet as apple pie. 🍎.”

Skyler Shuler, of The DisInsider, praised the film as “PURE DISNEY MAGIC,” adding, “This will end up being a lot of people’s favorite live-action remake,” while Crooked Media’s Matt DeGroot called Zegler “an absolute star,” also noting that “(most of) the new songs are catchy and beautifully performed, and the visual palette is sumptuous and vibrant.”

Screen Rant host Ash Crossan, meanwhile, called the project “quite charming,” explaining, “The message lands well, the critters are adorable, and Rachel Zegler and her enchanting voice are stunning. It almost got a full tear out of me, and I’ve never cried in my entire life.”

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Directed by Marc Webb, Snow White is an update of Disney’s 1937 animated Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, itself based on the 19th-century Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

The film stars Zegler, 23, as the titular princess and Gadot, 39, as the Evil Queen. Andrew Burnap, meanwhile, plays a prince-like character named Jonathan, Ansu Kabia plays the menacing Huntsman and Patrick Page provides the voice for the Magic Mirror.

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Lending their voice to the iconic seven sidekicks are Jeremy Swift (Doc), Martin Klebba (Grumpy), George Salazar (Happy), Andy Grotelueschen (Sleepy), Tituss Burgess (Bashful), Jason Kravits (Sneezy) and Andrew Barth Feldman (Dopey).

The remake, which features new original songs by award-winning composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, also adds Hadley Fraser and Lorena Andrea as Snow White’s parents, the Good King and the Good Queen.

Snow White is in theaters on March 21.