Disney may not cast dwarfs at all for the new live-action Snow White

After recent controversy surrounding the film, Disney may plan to go an entirely different route for the casting of the seven dwarfs. Here is what they may do instead.

Live-Action Adaptation

Disney’s first full-length animated feature is none other than Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Released in 1937, this classic film is a beloved story that has stood the test of time. The story tells of Snow White and her wicked Stepmother. When the Evil Queen finds out she is no longer the fairest of them all, she tries to have Snow White killed.

The live-action version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is slated for a 2023 release. Disney recently cast who is believed to play the Prince, Andrew Burnap. Burnap joins two ladies who have also secured roles in the film. Rachel Zegler will play the leading lady Snow White, and Gal Gadot will play the Evil Queen.

Recent Criticism

Disney has already received some criticism for the live-action retelling. Peter Dinklage, the actor best known for his role in Game of Thrones, recently had a lot to say about the film and how it will handle representation of little people.

In a recent podcast, he was surprised to see the Latina casting for the role of Snow White but shared concerns about how the film will handle the storyline of dwarfs living in the forest. He does raise an interesting point about how to be inclusive and respectful of the dwarfism community. Disney has responded to this recent criticism:

“To avoid reinforcing stereotypes from the original animated film, we are taking a different approach with these seven characters and have been consulting with members of the dwarfism community. We look forward to sharing more as the film heads into production after a lengthy development period,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.

Different Approach

Yesterday when I (Monica) shared this news, I wondered if Disney would even cast dwarfs at all for this film. It appears these suspicions are correct. Thewrap.com has reportedly seen the casting sheet for the film.

Instead of dwarfs, Disney will fill the void with a group of what they describe as “magical creatures,” according to the casting sheets that TheWrap has seen. Disney is also reportedly hiring voice actors for these “magical creatures.”

This leads me to believe these creatures may be animated or CGI like the live-action Lion King film. It’s unclear if they will bear any resemblance to the animated dwarfs. Will they look the same? Have the same names and personalities?

How do you think Disney should handle casting for the seven dwarfs? Let us know in the comments below and on Facebook.