Despite high expectations, Disney's live-action adaptation of Snow White faced numerous challenges both before and during its theatrical run. The film, which hit theaters on March 21, carried a hefty production budget and was surrounded by controversies that affected its performance. From casting decisions to public criticism, these factors contributed to a less-than-stellar opening weekend, where the movie earned only $42.2 million domestically—a figure far below what was needed to break even considering its $269.4 million cost.

As the weeks progressed, the film's box office numbers continued to decline sharply. In its second weekend, Snow White saw a steep drop of 66% in ticket sales, allowing another film to claim the top spot at the box office. By the time the movie concluded its theatrical journey on June 5, it had amassed just $87 million domestically and an additional $118 million internationally, totaling $205 million globally. This total is significantly lower than the initial production budget, let alone when factoring in marketing and distribution costs.

While the film's financial failure is evident, there are lessons to be learned from this experience. For one, understanding audience preferences and managing public perception can play a crucial role in a film's success. Additionally, the contrasting fortunes of Disney's other recent release, the live-action Lilo & Stitch, highlight the importance of selecting the right stories for adaptation. As Snow White moves to streaming platforms, Disney hopes to recover some of its investment by reaching a broader audience who may appreciate the film in a different setting. Ultimately, this case underscores the value of strategic planning and creative execution in the entertainment industry.