The Hollywood Reporter revealed an exclusive statement from Disney on Tuesday responding to Peter Dinklage’s harsh criticisms about the studio’s upcoming live-action remake of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.
The live-action remake has been in the works since 2016 and moved forward with Marc Webb to direct in 2019. Casting has only just begun with Wonder Woman’s Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen and West Side Story’s breakout star Rachel Zegler cast as the titular Snow White.
Fans and critics alike have experienced years of Disney reimagining their classic animated films, with many growing fatigued by the growing slate of remakes. Though audiences may have groaned at yet another live-action remake, Peter Dinklage had a different concern.
The Emmy-winning Game of Thrones star appeared on Marc Maron’s podcast WTF on Monday and shared his thoughts on the remake.
“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 backward 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 soapbox? I guess I’m not loud enough.”
Dinklage is not involved in the project.
A Disney spokesperson responded to Dinklage in this statement to The Hollywood Reporter:
“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.”
Like Mulan and Aladdin, Snow White will have cultural consultants. The studio says they have been reimaging the dwarves since the project’s inception.