Cancel culture continues to shape the entertainment industry, sparking debates over the content of beloved classics. Whether you love it or hate it, this phenomenon is likely here to stay.
The latest target of cancel culture is a film that has been cherished for generations—Disney's 1937 classic, *Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs*. As Disney’s first full-length animated feature, this movie is widely regarded as one of the studio's greatest achievements.
Based on the German fairytale by the Brothers Grimm, the film tells the story of a young woman who befriends seven dwarfs and falls victim to a wicked stepmother’s curse. Ultimately, a witch places Snow White under a spell, and only true love’s kiss can awaken her.
Despite its cultural significance, recognized by the United States Library of Congress as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” *Snow White* is now under scrutiny. The reason? Some believe the movie should be reassessed through the lens of modern values.
Many Disney classics, which have brought joy to countless viewers, are now being reevaluated by today’s standards. One person online noted, “As a kid, I never realized how dark and sinister some scenes were.”
The particular scene in question involves the Prince kissing Snow White while she is under the spell. What was once seen as a beautiful and romantic gesture is now criticized as an example of kissing without consent.
This criticism has sparked a heated debate. Some argue that it’s important to discuss consent, while others believe the critique is misplaced. One commenter said, “I think it’s great we’re opening up the conversation about consent, but blaming Disney—a romantic kiss at the end of a movie isn’t why teenagers are confused about consent.” Another added, “It’s a fairytale, leave Disney alone.”
Ultimately, if the Prince hadn’t kissed her, Snow White would have remained asleep forever. The debate over this classic film continues, and it will be interesting to see where the conversation leads.