Disney’s Snow White Under Fire: Should the Iconic Kiss Scene Be Changed Forever?

Disney’s beloved classic, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, is facing renewed scrutiny as audiences call for a reexamination of its plot to better align with modern values. Released in 1937, this film was Disney’s first full-length animated feature, drawing inspiration from the Brothers Grimm’s German fairy tale. For decades, it has held a cherished place in the hearts of children and adults alike. However, what was once seen as a timeless story of love and magic is now being criticized for its portrayal of key scenes, particularly those involving consent.

The film, which has been recognized by the United States Library of Congress as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” includes a controversial scene where Prince Charming kisses Snow White to break the spell that has left her in an eternal slumber. While this kiss has traditionally been viewed as a romantic and heroic gesture, some modern viewers are questioning its appropriateness, particularly in the context of consent.

The growing debate over this scene has been fueled by social media discussions, with one user expressing, “As a kid, I never knew how dark and sinister some scenes were.” Another added, “You ever go back and watch some of the Disney animated movies that came out when we were kids and realized how damn dark and not really for kids they were?”

Critics argue that the scene where the prince kisses Snow White without her consent is problematic, especially in a world that is increasingly aware of issues related to personal boundaries and the importance of consent. Nichi Hodgson, a journalist and broadcaster, voiced her concerns during an appearance on Good Morning Britain. She pointed out that this kiss was not part of the original Brothers Grimm story and argued that Disney, as a major cultural influencer, has a moral obligation to reflect ethical standards in its content. “Disney has a moral duty. They can be an ethical business if they want to be. They make billions every year from their films. Children watch their films from a very young age, and these are some of the first stories they encounter,” Hodgson stated.

The conversation around this issue is not limited to critics and commentators. Celebrities like Kristen Bell have also weighed in. In an interview with Parents magazine, Bell recounted a conversation she had with her children about the film, questioning the morality of the prince’s actions. “Don’t you think it’s weird that the prince kisses Snow White without her permission? Because you cannot kiss someone if they’re sleeping!” she reportedly told her kids, sparking further debate on whether such scenes should be altered or removed in future versions of the film.

However, not everyone agrees with the call to change the story. Some argue that while it is important to discuss consent, altering classic tales may not be the answer. “I think it’s great we’re opening up the conversation about consent, but people blaming Disney – a romantic kiss at the end of a movie isn’t the reason teenagers become confused about consent,” one critic wrote.

Others defend the kiss as an essential element of the fairytale, suggesting that Snow White, had she been awake, would have readily given her consent, understanding that the kiss was necessary to break the spell. “I’d argue that Snow White would readily give her consent to be kissed since not kissing her would condemn her to eternal sleep,” another person commented. The idea that the kiss is a “kiss of life” rather than an inappropriate advance is echoed by those who feel that the story should be preserved as it is.

The controversy gained additional momentum after Disneyland in California updated its Snow White Enchanted Wish ride. The new version ends with the prince kissing Snow White, reigniting discussions about whether this scene is appropriate in today’s society. Critics like Julie Tremaine and Katie Dowd, in their review for SFGATE, condemned this addition, calling it the “movie’s biggest problem.” They argued, “Haven’t we already agreed that consent in early Disney movies is a major issue? Teaching kids that kissing without establishing mutual consent is not okay.”

Adding to the conversation is Rachel Zegler, who is set to play Snow White in the upcoming live-action remake of the film. Zegler has hinted that the new version will take a different approach, moving away from the traditional narrative that focuses on Snow White’s relationship with the prince. In an interview with Extra TV, she described the original relationship as “weird” and suggested that in the remake, the prince’s role may be significantly reduced. “It’s Hollywood, baby,” she quipped, indicating that the remake will likely address some of the concerns raised by modern audiences.

As Disney continues to reimagine its classic stories for new generations, the debate over how to handle sensitive issues like consent is unlikely to fade. Whether the studio decides to make changes to the plot of Snow White or not, the conversation highlights the evolving nature of storytelling and the need to reflect contemporary values in the media we consume. In the end, Disney’s challenge will be to honor the legacy of its original films while ensuring that they resonate with audiences today and tomorrow.