Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” live action remake, starring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens, is powerfully evocative while breathing new life into the age-old story.
STARS: 4/5
The film is more than just a portrayal of the Disney classic; it is a fresh and joyful interpretation of the musical extravaganza.
Watson’s portrayal of Belle is more confident and adventurous than the traditional character. From her light, active costuming to her rich backstory, the new Belle is a deeper and more powerful character. Instead of simply being her father’s assistant, in this story, Belle is the inventor.
The new “Beauty and the Beast” could’ve easily been a disaster — whose voices can compare to that of Paige O’Hara and Angela Lansbury? However, the music in this film is joyful and centered on the character.
The most delightful new addition to the film is Stanley Tucci as the ever-musical harpsichord, Maestro Cadenza. His wife, Madame Garderobe (Audra McDonald) was a small character in the 1991 film and plays a much larger role in this adaptation. McDonald’s Tony Award wining, out-of-this-world voice brought a level of musical superiority to the film, elevating the rest of the cast.
One misstep of the film is Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of Lumiere. He’s jokingly said on several talk shows that he had trouble with the character’s French accent and it’s noticeable. The “Be Our Guest” scene is hampered by McGregor’s faulty voice, but saved by wonderful animation and an incredibly comedic Cogsworth (Ian Mckellan).
However, the real shame is that on IMAX screens, there are pan-over scenes that are severely plagued by blurriness, so much that they may be uncomfortable for viewers with poor eyesight to sit through.
The new film solves some major plot holes present in the original film. For instance, in the 1991 film, it’s unclear how much time has passed and why the village has no idea there’s a huge castle in the neighboring wood.
In this adaption, the witch’s curse upon the beast is more clearly explained and gives more context to the time frame.
Another troubling plot hole is the Stockholm Syndrome love-affair that seems to befall Belle. While it’s still troubling, Watson’s Belle is a stronger, more outspoken woman, much like the actress herself.
Viewers young and old will enjoy this new take on an old favorite. Disney’s new adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast” is an instant classic, on par with its animated predecessor.