When I saw the trailer for “Snow White and the Huntsman,” I was intrigued. The film struck me as action-packed, dangerous, dramatic, and exciting. I was curious to know how this remake would differ from Disney's 1937 “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Kristen Stewart, well known for her characterization of Bella Swan in the Twilight Saga, plays Snow White. Up-and-coming Australian actor Chris Hemsworth (also known as Thor) is Eric the Huntsman. Charlize Theron plays the Wicked Queen, and Sam Claflin is William, Snow White's childhood love.

In this dark retelling of Snow White, not much has changed from the original fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The movie begins in a medieval ­setting, with Snow White's mother wishing for a daughter with lips as red as a rose, hair black as night, and skin as white as snow. A princess is born, and not long after, her mother dies. Snow White's father, the king, stricken with grief and sorrow, soon marries another – a beautiful woman who is to become Snow White's stepmother and the new queen. Unfortunately, the king dies and the Wicked Queen takes over the kingdom, imprisoning her stepdaughter.

Fast forward a decade, and the Magic Mirror reveals to the Wicked Queen that Snow White, fairest in all the land, will be her undoing. The Wicked Queen calls upon the Huntsman to capture Snow White, so she can rule forever. However, the Huntsman ignores the queen's wishes and decides to help Snow White defeat her cruel stepmother.

One aspect that is different in this version is that the audience sees a new Snow White. Here, the fair maiden charges into battle to take back her rightful place as heir to the throne. She evokes the image of a warrior princess. Though unskilled as a warrior per se, Snow White is not portrayed as weak. In the past she was characterized
as a sweet young lady who wouldn't harm a fly – with the animals flocking to her. But here, Snow White is reborn as a fighter, leading men to wage war against her evil stepmother.

So far, 2012 has brought strong female leads that take charge – Katniss, Snow White, and Merida in “Brave.” In the battle scenes, it's clear that Snow White's character has been adapted for this century. Another aspect I found interesting is that “Snow White” does not place much emphasis on love. Sure, William, her childhood friend and supposed love interest, comes to her rescue, protecting her against the queen. But we don't see the princess sharing passionate kisses with anyone. Her focus is on her people and protecting their future.

“Snow White and the Huntsman” is beautifully shot. Director Rupert Sanders does an amazing job, especially during the intense battle scenes. Unlike the rosy-cheeked Disney cartoon version, this film is gruesome and grotesque – the Brothers Grimm would have been proud. With homeless and starving subjects fighting for food scraps, terrors in the Dark Forest, and the Evil Queen piercing birds' hearts, this Snow White makes the original fairy tale look tame.

Stewart's performance is convincing. I will even go so far as to say that she is better as Snow White than as Bella in “Twilight.” It is a different character, so I was able to see her in a new light. Hemsworth is just getting started, and I think he'll be around for a long time. It is a bit unsettling seeing Theron play a villain, but she pulled it off well.

I was impressed with “Snow White and the Huntsman.” I thought it looked cool set in medieval times and was well executed. This Snow White made me want to root for her and fight next to her. I also like the expanded role of the Huntsman. No offense to the original, but I could really see this Snow White as a successful ruler and leader of pure heart, a savior to her people.

I give it 3/4.