Recycling old films, especially of the ani- mated variety, has become as popular as the “Go Green” movement.
However, the newest live action rendition of the “Beauty and the Beast” stands out among the rest. With an exceptional cast and revitalized storyline, this film does more than retell a stale narrative.
Like the animated version, the 2017 depiction of “Beauty and the Beast” follows the characters of Belle, an open-minded girl living in a small-minded village, and the Beast, a cursed soul whose negative attitude puts a damper on his entire castle. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of any “Beauty and the Beast” portrayal is the storyline behind the living and enchanted furniture and housewares in the castle. According to a spell cast by an enchantress, the brash Beast must find love before the last petal falls from a magical rose, or else he and the rest of the characters in the castle will stay in their cursed forms.
After her father goes missing, Belle finds herself imprisoned in the Beast’s castle. But, with a little help from the Beast’s energetic servants, she realizes the dark fortress might not be as terrible as her narrow- minded village. Eventually, Belle comes to understand the Beast as less of an animal and more of a friend.
Emma Watson, as Belle, brought the same refined demeanor portrayed in the animated version, while adding in a much needed dose of empowerment to the character.
The Beast was played by Dan Stevens, a great pick based on his time on “Downton Abbey.” Luke Evans played the strapping and macho Gaston, and flawlessly displayed the characters brutish side. Ewan McGregor voiced and portrayed one of the more well- known and boisterous houseware charac- ters, Lumiere.
“Beauty and the Beast” has always been a simple fable, but with added twists and turns in the plot, the live action version promises more than just two hours of song and dance.
While “Beauty and the Beast” hosts a great actors list, the film also has a plethora of amazing actors to voice the various ani- mated characters. This film combines live action with magical doses of animation. It is the fusion of animation and real life actors that bring a sense of wonder and illusion to the production.
Compared to the 1991 version of “Beauty and the Beast,” this rendition adds to the plot by repairing the holes left in the children’s tale. In this version, the absence of Belle’s mother is addressed in a way that does not skirt around the issue, but builds on the storyline. The nearly age-old ques- tion of what really cursed the Beast and his servants is also thoroughly touched on in this film, creating a broader understanding of the tale.
Considering most of the actors in this film did not hop straight off the Broadway circuit, it was a pleasant surprise to find that the entire cast was incredible and mu- sically talented. With several extra songs not included in the animated version, the musical aspect of this film felt fresh and still as catchy as before.
A smart rework of the narrative, a modern take on casting and a fresh set of musical numbers make this depiction of “Beauty and the Beast” a must watch.