It truly is a tale as old as time with Disney’s animated version debuting in 1991. The film was based on the French fairy tale of the same name by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont, who was also credited in the English version as well as in the French version. Flash forward to 2017 with Disney’s live action version, you have an entire audience excited to see their favorite Disney Princess in live action, as well as new fans eagerly awaiting its premiere. It is as magical as one could have hoped!
From the opening scene to closing credits, I was in deep and mesmerized. Despite her fears, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior, allowing her to recognize the tender heart and soul of the true prince that hides on the inside of the Beast. Emma Watson as Belle was picture perfect! Watson has a beautiful singing voice as well as the Belle characteristics we know from the original animation. The story was told beautifully, quite similar to the animated version with a little more insight; which for me, was perfect! I wanted to see my favorite scenes live in action, and Disney delivered them all!
There are so many fabulous sevens and great numbers I don’t think I could pick just one. I’d have to say I really enjoyed the the tavern with Gaston and Le Fou and the waltz with Belle and the Beast. Both so iconic in my mind when I think of the classic Disney tale. Both exceeded my expectations for live action. Josh Gad as La Fou and Luke Evans as Gaston are pure casting magic! They totally embody these characters and bring them to life! I loved the Gaston song so much! Of course, Emma Watson and Dan Stevens have great chemistry as Belle and the Beast. I truly loved seeing Belle teach the Beast how to love and watching them discover there may be something there that wasn’t there before.
If you are a fan of the original, you will fall in love with this version no doubt! If you have not seen the original, you will fall in love no doubt! Beauty and the Beast is a tale of love, courage, and not judging a book by its cover. I think this movie is good for all ages. There are a few short scenes that involve violence and wolves, but they are quick and done in good taste. Beauty and the Beast has a running time of 2 hrs and 10 minutes.
Go see this one on the big screen – you’ll be glad you did!
