Cast
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Adriana Caselotti
as Snow White (voice) (uncredited)
Lucille La Verne
as Queen / Witch (voice) (uncredited)
Harry Stockwell
as Prince (voice) (uncredited)
Roy Atwell
as Doc (voice) (uncredited)
Pinto Colvig
as Sleepy / Grumpy / Dopey (hiccups) (voice) (uncredited)
Otis Harlan
as Happy (voice) (uncredited)
Scotty Mattraw
as Bashful (voice) (uncredited)
Billy Gilbert
as Sneezy (voice) (uncredited)
Eddie Collins
as Dopey / Chipmunk and Squirrel Sneezes (voice) (uncredited)
Moroni Olsen
as Magic Mirror (voice) (uncredited)
Marion Darlington
as Birds (voice) (uncredited)
Purv Pullen
as Birds (voice) (uncredited)
Stuart Buchanan
as Huntsman (voice) (uncredited)
June Foray
as Animals (voice) (uncredited)
Candy Candido
as Raven (voice) (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- David Hand
- Ben Sharpsteen
- William Cottrell
- Larry Morey
- Perce Pearce
- Wilfred Jackson
Producer
- Walt Disney
Reviews
CinemaSerf
A vain Queen visits her mirror each day to have it confirmed that she is the fairest in the land. When, one morning, her validator gives her news less to her liking she determines to have her step daughter "Snow White" done away with. Her captain of the guard is dispatched into the forest with his young charge with instructions to see she doesn't return! He can't quite bring himself to murder the girl, so abandons her thinking the forest will do the job for him... Luckily, she stumbles upon the cottage of the seven dwarves - who depart each day to mine for jewels. They return home, discover her asleep in one of their tiny beds and after a bit of a bumpy start, take her to their hearts. That's basically the theme - the film has "heart"; the dwarves reflect seven differing facets of human personality but all are sensitively enveloped in a glue of loyalty and humanity. All of these are tested as the wicked Queen discovers that the girl is still thriving (via her mirror) and sets out, personally, do the job. This Brothers' Grimm story is the stuff of all of our childhoods, as is the ending to this ultimately romantic fairy tale. The animations are beautifully crafted; the dialogue of menace and humour is marvellously engaging and - at times - poignant, too. There are plenty of memorable, catchy songs into the bargain. I always preferred "Bashful" myself..
Jun 20, 2022
Thematic Analysis
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Animation/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director David Hand brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1938, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1484 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Finding Nemo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Snow White and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe explore similar territory, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 14, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 23m
- Budget: $1,488,423
- Revenue: $184,925,486
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