Disney’s latest live-action adaptation, “Snow White,” took the lead at the box office with a modest $43 million debut. Although it topped the domestic charts, the numbers fell short of expectations. Overseas, the film managed $44.3 million, rounding out a global opening of $87.3 million, shy of the projected $100 million.
Controversies have trailed this release. Criticism ranged from the depiction of the seven dwarves to changes in the near-century-old storyline. Additionally, calls for boycotts were fueled by the political stances of stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Interestingly, analysts doubt the controversies significantly impacted ticket sales.
In comparison, “Snow White” has the lowest domestic debut among Disney’s live-action reimaginings. While previous films like “The Jungle Book” and “Beauty and the Beast” opened to over $100 million and often crossed the billion-dollar mark globally, “Snow White” will need to rely on sustained audience interest to determine its fate. Disney remains optimistic, hoping for a slow and steady box office climb similar to last December’s “Mufasa.”
Meanwhile, Robert De Niro’s “The Alto Knights” bombed with a dismal $3.2 million debut. This R-rated mob drama did not even break into the top five, making it one of the year’s biggest flops for Warner Bros. The movie, which portrays De Niro as two notorious crime bosses, was panned by critics, receiving a low 39% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The box office is in dire need of a hit, as revenues lag nearly 7% behind last year. All eyes are on upcoming big titles like “A Minecraft Movie” and Marvel’s “Thunderbolts” to rejuvenate theater attendance.
What are your thoughts on “Snow White’s” performance and the latest controversies? Share your views in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this story!
Source: Rebecca Rubin
