Rachel Zegler, the star of Disney’s latest adaptation of “Snow White,” has found herself at the center of controversy following the film’s disastrous box office performance, reportedly losing the studio over $300 million. As the Walt Disney Company grapples with the fallout from this significant financial setback, Zegler’s responses to the criticism have sparked further debate.

Released amid high expectations, “Snow White” has been met with overwhelmingly negative reviews, criticizing its writing, direction, and overall execution. Despite a modest opening weekend gross of $80 million, the film’s production and marketing costs, estimated between $250 million to $300 million, have led to its classification as a significant flop. Disney’s marketing efforts have begun to scale back in response to the film’s poor reception.

Zegler, who has been vocal about her experiences in the industry, recently addressed the backlash during a press tour. She attributed part of the negative reception to what she describes as a toxic fandom culture that disproportionately targets women, particularly those advocating for feminist ideals. She emphasized that “Snow White” aims to empower young women by portraying a narrative where a love interest is not central to success.

Critics, however, argue that the film fails to resonate with audiences, citing continuity issues and an overall lack of coherence. Zegler’s insistence that the film carries an important message has not swayed public opinion, as many perceive her comments as dismissive of valid criticisms.

As Disney’s CEO Bob Iger seeks to mitigate the damage, the studio faces scrutiny over its creative choices and its handling of the adaptation. The disconnect between Zegler’s defense of the film and audience reactions exemplifies the challenges facing filmmakers in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. With “Snow White” now regarded as one of Disney’s most significant missteps, it remains to be seen how the studio will recover from this latest setback.