In this era, there are remakes, sequels and re-boots
galore. Several films have had multiple versions of their stories made
over the decades. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ is one that has seen many
adaptations. Some have been amazing while others have withered. The
1991 Walt Disney animated version was a huge success leading to a popular stage
version. Now comes the live-action movie update with all the bells and
whistles only Disney can provide. A gorgeous looking production with stirring
music that successfully captures the timelessness of its classic tale.
When her father is captured and held captive in a
sinister-looking castle, Belle (Emma Watson) tries to find a way to free
him. She decides to trade her life for his, a pact she makes with the
castle’s owner, the Beast (Dan Stevens). An ugly monster on the surface,
underneath, as Belle discovers, someone full of genuine heart. Becoming
enchanted with the magical beings within the castle, she defends the beast
against determined hunter Gaston (Luke Evans). Hoping the beast’s true
nature emerges for all to see, Belle races against the clock to ensure this
happens.
From its opening moments, you can tell ‘Beauty and the
Beast’ is a lavish production. No expense has been spared to bring the
tale to life. It certainly looks sumptuous, with elegant costuming,
visual design and well written music. These elements are meant to
entrance viewers into its magical world. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ revels in
its slick professionalism, with its glossy veneer hiding its messages of being
an outsider and accepting the person inside ourselves. Although it wasn’t
created by Disney, the story is well suited to the company who has traded on
its family friendly ideal.
Director Bill Condon directs with panache despite the cartoonish
characters seen. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ is very much a feel-good piece
with wicked villains and virtuous heroes. Watson does well as the latter
with Evans cutting a dashing figure in the former. The only genuine
let-down is the rendering of the beast with less than credible CGI. This
takes away a little from the romance between him and Belle, even if it is
handled well. The songs are suitably hum-able and the imaginative
creativity gone into presenting this for big-screen entertainment noticeable.
Although this is yet another version of an oft-told tale,
‘Beauty and the Beast’ offers a megabuck spectacle worth seeing. It makes
you more appreciative effort has gone into crafting something visually
appealing. Its sense of enchanting wonder is intact that would have made
Walt Disney proud.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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