Why Are the Seven Dwarfs in Snow White CGI Instead of Played by Actors?

Disney's Snow White remake features CGI Seven Dwarfs, sparking online controversy and dividing audiences.

Updated on Aug 28, 2024  |  09:50 AM IST |  87K
IMDB
Snow White (PC: IMDB)

Disney's decision to use CGI for the Seven Dwarfs in its upcoming live-action remake of Snow White has ignited a wave of controversy. The film's trailer reveals that beloved characters like Dopey and Grumpy will be rendered through computer animation, rather than being portrayed by live actors.

This choice has drawn criticism from various quarters. Notably, actor Peter Dinklage, known for his advocacy for the dwarfism community, voiced strong objections. He pointed out the inconsistency in Disney’s casting of a Latina actress as Snow White while retaining the outdated portrayal of dwarfs in the story. Dinklage argued that the use of CGI, rather than casting actors with dwarfism, fails to advance representation in Hollywood.

Snow White (YouTube/Walt Disney Studios)

Critics argue that Disney's decision not only perpetuates outdated stereotypes but also misses an opportunity to showcase talented actors with dwarfism. They believe that a live-action approach could have provided a platform for such actors, offering a more respectful and inclusive adaptation.

Disney's choice reflects ongoing debates about how to modernize classic fairy tales. While some see the adaptation as an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to a traditional story, others worry that it risks reinforcing problematic stereotypes. The controversy highlights the broader challenge of balancing respect for original material with the need for contemporary sensitivity.

Snow White (YouTube, Walt Disney Studios)

In 2022, actor Peter Dinklage criticized Disney for casting a Latina actress as Snow White in a remake of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, arguing that it was hypocritical to portray a "backwards story" of seven dwarfs living in a cave together. Dinklage has used his celebrity platform to advocate for people with dwarfism, often criticizing Hollywood's typecasting of them as fantasy creatures.

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“Literally no offense to anyone, but I was a little taken aback when they were very proud to cast a Latina actress as Snow White. But you’re still telling the story of ‘ Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs .’ Take a step back and look at what you’re doing there. It makes no sense to me. You’re progressive in one way but then you’re still making that fucking backwards story about seven dwarfs living in a cave together, what the fuck are you doing, man? Have I done nothing to advance the cause from my soap box?"

He continued, "I guess I’m not loud enough. I don’t know which studio that is but they were so proud of it. All love and respect to the actress and all the people who thought they were doing the right thing. But I’m just like, what are you doing?"

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The Snow White controversy has been a contentious issue online for years, with the release of the trailer adding to the controversy. Critics argue that the film maintains the cartoonish and stereotypical depictions of dwarf characters, while not elevating the voices of actors with dwarfism. As Disney's live-action Snow White remake is not yet out, it is possible that the film contains commentary on this issue that the trailers haven't highlighted. However, the ongoing debate continues, causing Disney's upcoming Snow White remake to remain a hot topic online.

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With a Masters in English, Barsha is a movie buff and a K-pop stan who is fascinated by the

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