Beauty and the Beast was a film that changed the outlook of animation in its time. The music from the film is unforgettable and the characters are timeless. When Disney decided to make a live action remake, I was very interested to see where they took it and how they planned to tackle a classic film that is loved all over the world. Disney made the first step in the right direction by casting Emma Watson as Belle. After that, things only seemed to get better. Everything about this film for me was reading positive and could not wait to see it on the big screen.
I must say that this film delivered on so many levels. I loved the storytelling, casting, nostalgia, and music. This film is visually stunning and just a marvel to watch. The detail that is displayed throughout this film is perfect. Disney is able to recreate a story that we all know and love without straying too far from the original. It felt familiar yet so refreshing and new. Even the new changes in the story that they used to deepen these characters was something I enjoyed and did not pull you away from the story. Every piece of this film fits like a puzzle.
The casting in this could not have been better. Every person that they cast seemed to bring these original characters right back to life. Emma Watson is perfect as Belle. Luke Evans was a spitting image of Gaston and well as Josh Gad as LeFou. The character I was originally most worried about was the Beast. That original artwork of the Beast was one of my favorites growing up and I think the image is so recognizable. I was worried that they would change it up too much and stray away from the original. However, I was happily surprised that they kept true to that design and brought him to life. When it came to the character’s presence, there was a sense of power present that was necessary for the Beast. But, in contrast, there was also a softness portrayed which made you fall in love with this creature. It was put together beautifully. The actor Dan Stevens was a wonderful casting choice.
Beauty and The Beast is a must see for the whole family and is one worth multiple viewings in theaters. It is one of the best live action Disney remakes—tied with The Jungle Book. Cinema Wise gives Beauty and the Beast a 5 out of 5.
Cinema Wise 