Review of Beauty and the Beast (2017) by James M — 12 Jul 2017

Beauty and the Beast is the live-action remake of the 1991 Disney animated classic. This is another live action remake following Cinderella, The Jungle Book, and Pete's Dragon. Pretty soon we'll see The Lion King and Mulan come into the spotlight. I remember watching the original repeatedly as a kid. I even saw a high school play, which felt exactly like the movie. It makes sense they remad the previous films they so far released, since they don't get a lot of attention, considering the fact kids aren't familiar with them.

If you're not familiar with the story of Beauty and the Beast, let me explain it. A rude young prince has been cursed by a powerful enchantress, turning him into a hideous beast. And turning everyone into antiques. A young girl named Belle is a part of a village who doesn't really treat her nicely. Gaston dreams one day for Belle to be her trophy wife. While Belle's father goes off to the market, he finds a mysterious castle home to the Prince. He's taken prisoner as Belle goes off to find her father. Concluding negotiations, Belle gives away her freedom for her father. Now, she and the Beast have to learn to love each other and break the curse the enchantress unleashed.

Emma Watson as Belle is surprisingly good. I'm glad this film dragged me away from the whole "Hermione Granger" feel, because that would've made the movie a disaster. Dan Stevens as the Beast is perfect. It's always great to see this actor on screen. Ewan McGregor voices Lumiere, and let me tell you, he does not sound anything like Obi-Wan Kenobi from the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy. Ian McKellen as Cogsworth is Emma Thompson as Mrs. Pots is calm, sweet, and patient with the Beast. These three brought their characters to life. Luke Evans as Gaston is very funny. He remains one of the best Disney villains to this day. Same with Josh Gad as LeFour, who previously voiced Olaf in Frozen, also makes a funny portrayal. Kevin Kline as Belle's father made a tremendous supporting role.

The visuals are just outstanding. The set designs, the costumes, the motion capture on the Beast himself. The castle was very-well detailed. Not one bit felt unreal. The antiques are done with some incredible CGI. I personally liked Lumiere the candlestick.

Just like all remakes, this one is differently from the original. Scenes were identical, yet they made them with a slightly different feel, also the same songs from last time, including "Be Out Guest." Unfortunately, some of it doesn't work. In the original, the Prince was turned into a beast as a child, which makes sense, because he's forgotten what it's like to be human. Here, he's turned into a beast as an adult for.....not too long really. Even new songs are added. Sadly, I only enjoyed one called, "Evermore." This song is becoming a huge hit everywhere. Dan Stevens nailed it.

Beauty and the Beast is one of the best remakes in a long time. The actors/actresses did a great job with their roles, the visual are astounding, the effects are flawless, and the song, "Evermore" is fantastic. If you were a fan of the original as a kid, chances are you'll love this adaptation. It's great for a new generation to watch. I'll be looking forward to their future live-action remakes, next one being Mulan. As for Beauty and the Beast, it deserves an 8.5 out of 10.