While many associate Snow White with the version Disney put forth in 1937, the fairy tale is much older (and darker) than the beloved animated movie. The Brothers Grimm first published the story in 1812, over a century before Disney acquired the IP. While countless versions of the tale exist, the premise is the same: An envious queen orders a beautiful young woman killed because her very existence threatens the queen’s beauty.
Since the Brothers Grimm committed the story to page, dozens of movies and TV shows have adapted Snow White, each putting their own spin on one of the most iconic fairy tales ever written. Here’s where to watch the best adaptations of Snow White on streaming services like Apple TV and Hulu.
Snow-White (1933)
One of Snow White’s earliest adaptations came in the form of a Betty Boop short titled Snow-White. Everyone’s favorite animated flapper takes the titular role, and Max Fleischer’s other well-known characters, Bimbo and Kiko, receive orders from the Queen to execute her. That, of course, doesn’t go as planned, and the plot veers from the source material into something much more goofy and fantastical. Complete with ghosts and dragons, Snow-White is ideal for classic movie enthusiasts that aren’t looking for anything too serious.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Walt Disney’s 1916’s Snow White with inspiring the movie. However, Disney’s version of Snow White would become the landing page for interpretations going forward. This movie popularized the “true love’s kiss” trope, which became one of the story’s most iconic and controversial elements due to the issue of consent.
Snow White and the Three Stooges (1961)
In this retelling of Snow White, the Three Stooges replace the dwarves. Funny enough, Snow White and the Three Stooges’ biggest downfall seems to be too much Snow White and not enough Stooges. Those expecting the usual slapstick antics of Moe, Larry, and Curly will likely be disappointed. However, others might find a certain charm in the absurdity of it all. So-bad-it’s good is a fitting descriptor.
Snow White (1987)
Part of Cannon Movie Tales direct-to-video fare, which included other fairy tale adaptations like Beauty and the Beast and The Frog Prince, 1987’s Snow White delivers a somewhat corny but faithful plot. Unlike Disney’s original movie, this retelling offers more insight into Snow White’s relationship with her father. Perhaps best ed for Diana Rigg’s wonderfully campy performance as the Evil Queen, Snow White is somehow both ahead of its time and showing its age.
Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1997)
The darkness in Snow White nicely lends itself to horror. Least we not forget that the Brothers Grimm’s story ended with the Queen dancing in hot iron shoes until she died. Sigourney Weaver’s performance as the evil stepmother steals the show.
Once Upon a Time (2011-2018)
In Once Upon a Time, fairy tale characters reside in the town of Storybrooke. However, a curse robbed them of their memories, and it’s not until Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison) arrives that mysteries come to light. Although Once Upon a Time introduces numerous fairy tales and characters, Snow White plays a major role in the series. Best enjoyed without spoilers, just know that Once Upon a Time has seven seasons of creative retellings and layered storytelling to look forward to.
Mirror Mirror (2012)
For whatever reason, 2012 was the year of Snow White adaptations. Grimm’s Snow White, yet delivered much more comedy than its competitors. Julia Roberts plays the Evil Queen to Lily Collins’ Snow White. In addition to a big-name cast, Mirror Mirror gives the dwarfs a more substantial mentor-esque role. Overall, it’s a solid Snow White adaptation for audiences wanting something lighthearted and fun.
Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)
While Mirror Mirror offers lighthearted laughs, Chris Hemsworth’s Eric the Huntsman conspire to overthrow her. Beautiful cinematography aside, Snow White and the Huntsman twists the classic tale into an epic adventure with medieval flair.
Snow White with the Red Hair (2015-2016)
If you’re looking for something similar to Disney’s version of the princess, you won’t find it here. Snow White with the Red Hair very much does its own thing with the source material. In this Shōjo anime, Shirayuki (the Snow White of the story) is an herbalist who is essentially captured by a prince in awe of her red hair and rescued by another, although Shirayuki never falls into “damsel in distress” territory. While absent of many of the things that most consider vital to Snow White, like the Evil Queen and dwarfs, Snow White with the Red Hair offers one of the more unique takes on the classic fairy tale while still homaging the classic story so many love.
Snow White (2025)
While there has been no shortage of Snow White adaptations, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes actress.
Where to stream the best Snow White adaptations in the US
Check out JustWatch’s list below to discover where to stream the best Snow White adaptations in the US.
