This weekend, one of the year’s most anticipated movies, especially for Disney fans, was finally released: a live action retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
I was very, very exited when this movie was first announced. Emma Watson playing the role of Belle? My favorite actress playing my favorite character from my favorite Disney movie? It was a dream come true! As the release date came nearer, I simultaneously became more wary, yet excited for this new version of Beauty and the Beast. So today, I will be telling you what I thought of the film and it’s new take on a very familiar classic.
************************************************
First, let me answer the question that everyone is asking: Was it as good as the animated version? Honestly, I do not think I can compare them. This version has elements from multiple versions of the tale not just the one most of us watched growing up (though it is the one most prominently featured). I don’t think that this film was trying to copy any version, but make it it’s own that people could keep close to their hearts. The animated version of Beauty and the Beast has always been one of my favorite movies, and I still loved this new one. I really don’t have any major complaints about it at all. In the moment, yes, I did enjoy this movie as much as the original, but I would never say I like one better than the other.
Emma Watson was so wonderful as Belle. Though she isn’t a singer, I did not mind that as much as I thought I would. She’s an incredible actress and looks the part of the character so well that it is not such a bother. Belle has always been my favorite Disney character, but this movie somehow made me love and relate to her even more. Belle isn’t a follower and is often criticized for that. She isn’t ashamed of who she is, but she is often saddened by the small-mindedness of the villagers. That is why she delves into the world of books, they make her feel less trapped and more free. I can understand those feelings Belle is having all too well, but what makes her such a role model is how she stands up for herself and goes on so bravely about everything throughout the whole film. I loved the way she was even more fearless in this version.
All of the musical numbers are amazing and are sure to put a smile on your face! Alan Menken wrote four new songs for this movie and they are all as beautiful as those found in the animated original.
There were many other things I enjoyed as well. I liked the newly designed characters, my favorite being Lumiere. The sets were beautiful and, for the most part, looked very similar to the ones in the animated version. Something that I know most will appreciate is how they gave each character more depth and backstory. It was just enough to make them seem more real.
In the end, Beauty and the Beast made me happy, and when it comes to movies, that’s all I want. To feel happy while watching them.
************************************************
What did you think of Beauty and the Beast? Tell me in the comments below, I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks for listening and have a magical day! – Ruby 8:)
(Photo from the author’s personal collection.)
Ruby is a fifteen year old Disney fan, and she credits her mom with starting her early love of Disney. In addition to her enthusiasm for Disney, Ruby enjoys singing, drawing, reading, listening to music and writing. She enjoys reviewing Disney-related topics that are of interest to younger Disney fans—and their parents and grandparents!
The post Does Disney’s New “Beauty and the Beast” Live Up To Our Expectations? appeared first on WDW Radio.
