John Rogan on why Snow White flopped

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Podcaster Joe Rogan has added his thoughts to the growing criticism around Disney’s live-action remake of “Snow White.”

The film, which had a production budget of $250 million (R4.7 billion), grossed only $69 million (R1.3 billion) domestically, leading to much speculation on why the movie underperformed and whether it could be because of its lead actress, Rachel Zegler’s controversial history.

Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger critique Snow White’s Budget and Production Choices

On a recent episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” Rogan and comedian Kurt Metzger expressed their raw thoughts about the film’s budget and how it lacked good visuals. Metzger remarked, “I’m sure she sucks, but she is very young. She didn’t write that script though, right?”

He further noted, “And I don’t think she made the ‘no dwarves’ decision, that was Sir Peter Dinklage.” The duo also looked at the film’s use of CGI for the seven dwarfs and shared how disappointing they found it. You can watch the clip here.

Joe Rogan called for a DOGE investigation as he wasn’t convinced it cost $250 million (R4.7 billion) to put the film together. He also seemed to sympathise with Rachel as he stated, “How much does this cost?…they should get DOGE looking at this movie. They spent 250 million bucks making that movie? But imagine you spend $250 million, and you get some young girl, and you don’t kind of talk to her about like, hey, you know, don’t get political, you’re young, and I know you have opinions about things, but this should be just about the movie.”

Rachel Zegler’s Political Statements Spark Backlash

Rachel Zegler, 23, has faced significant criticism for her political views, especially her pro-Palestinian support. In August 2024, she tweeted“And always remember, free palestine.” This led to backlash from various people.

According to CBC, In August 2023, she exclaimed that her Snow White won’t be “saved by a prince” which left many Disney followers including Jonah Platt, son of the film’s producer Marc Platt not so impressed. Platt publicly criticised Zegler for her remarks, stating that she “hijacked the conversation” surrounding the film and “clearly hurt the film.” He revealed that his father had to personally address Zegler’s political posts, which he believes had a negative impact on the film as the focus was shifted. �

What else might have led to Snow White flopping?

TikTokhas not held off since the movie’s release, with many users criticising Gal Gadot’s acting as the Evil Queen. Critics suggest that her “bad” acting is one of the reasons viewers chose not to watch the film. Here is what a few users had to say:

@Nomad: Gal gadot acting is really bad

@Rom: Horrible acting! It’s sad that they keep casting here. She ruins every movie she is in. 😂😂😂 somebody stop her please, she is ruining the art of movie

@szd_151: how does she keep getting roles.

The relationship between the film’s financial shortcomings and the controversial history revolving around its lead actress has started a discussion about accountability in Hollywood productions.

While Rachel Zegler has been at the centre of much of the criticism, voices like Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger emphasise the need for viewers to express raw thoughts at the decisions of filmmakers and producers in the creation and marketing of such high-budget films.