The Beauty And The Beast: 7/10 roses
Lowdown: Classic animation film unburied and brought to life.
Rated: G
Now Showing At: Bijou Movie Theater, Wehrenberg Galaxy 16 Cine, Carmike Wynnsong Theaters, and Marcus Coral Ridge Theaters.
Review By Grace McCollum
The March 17 release of the film Beauty And The Beast Starring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens has gathered a varied audience of all ages. Directed by Bill Condon, this classic story is brought to life in an exceptional retelling of an amazing love story. Despite being buried for years, all of the wonderful lessons and details of the animated Disney movie from 1991 resurface and remind the audience what it means to love, and be loved in return.
After being cursed and turned into a hideous beast, the Prince hides away until the young and beautiful Belle travels into his castle in which her father is being imprisoned. Belle is unique and different from all other princesses before her. She brings a new element to royalty which has never been seen before: independence and intelligence. In this film the audience watches as she takes her own path to conquer the struggles that she encounters. The movie emphasizes the importance of loving for the beauty inside rather than on the outside. Love, loss, and tragedy are all part of what makes this film a hit.
Most commonly known for her role in the Harry Potter films as the intelligent Hermione Granger, Emma Watson stars as Belle. Watson’s grace and personality are what make her an exceptional choice for this role. She truly assumes the role of Belle and the audience can see the connection between the two through her fantastic portrayal. Another role that was very successfully portrayed was that of Gaston by Luke Evans. Evans totally encapsulates the role of Gaston and does an overall amazing job showing the audience all of the despicable characteristics of Gaston.
One disadvantage to the film was its seemingly slow start. However, when it got to the point where viewers would become emotionally invested, they can’t help but be infatuated with the story, plot, and characters. Even though most know how the story ends, viewers can’t help watching as if it was the first time they had heard the story.
Another great element of this film is the underlying lesson it teaches to young girls. It speaks volumes about the value of intelligence and independence. Almost every other princess movie portrays the princess as weak and desperately needing to be saved by the most handsome prince. In Beauty And The Beast we finally see the girl’s intelligence and ability to stand on her own. This film also teaches us that looks are not what matters in love. We clearly see personality valued above looks and discover that beauty is not only found on the outside, but on the inside as well.
