Beauty and the Beast Review
Although the tale may be as old as time and the song might be as old as rhyme, the new Beauty and the Beast movie puts a new twist on the famous franchise. With Emma Watson and Dan Stevens portraying the iconic characters of Belle and the Beast, the musical is brought to life for both kids and lifelong adult fans.
On opening weekend, Beauty and the Beast grossed 170 million (domestic), exceeding box office records for the month of March, and solidifying the Mouse’s Empire as a dominant player in the film business. Since then, the film has grossed 983.5 million dollars worldwide.
I was fortunate enough to watch the film opening weekend. The movie theater was filled with all ages alike, from senior citizens to little girls wearing the famous yellow dress. As I took my seat the anticipation quickly set in, as all movie goers, including myself, hoped that this newly adapted movie would fulfill all of their expectations. The movie began with an earnest Emma Watson portraying Belle in a vivid and genuine manner. As she began to sing “Bonjour” (the opening number), the audience rejoiced as they all sang along with her. Throughout the film the audience followed the ups and downs of the movie. They shuttered when they caught glimpses of the beast, they cried when the last petal had fallen of the rose, and they cheered when the horrendous curse was broken. As the credits rolled, everyone stood from their seats and gave the film a well-deserved standing ovation.
I on the other hand didn’t share the same feelings. While the movie did encompass the plot line to its truest form, it failed to impress in the most important aspect of Disney films. The Music. In this adapted film, the soundtrack was less than subpar, especially when compared to the original movie. John Legend and Ariana Grande, although astounding singers, couldn’t match the majestic voice of Celine Dion singing “Beauty and the Beast”. Nonetheless the movie is worth the viewing, (and I Payed $12 for my ticket, so believe me when I say this).
Another Timber Creek student also went to see the movie. Junior, Ariana Rivera was able to watch the film, opening night. She immediately fell in love with the film, however she attributes her adoration to her first time viewing of the movie, meaning she had never seen the original, cartoon version. Rivera calls the film “Enchanting” and “Mesmerizing” as it resonated with important aspects of her life. She adds that Beauty and the Beast is a must see, and she wouldn’t mind going to watch the film again.
Overall the new Beauty and the Beast meets most expectations. While it does fall short in some aspects, the actual execution of the film (acting, costumes etc.) was spectacular. This live action role play is definitely the best that Disney had produced so far. So go ahead and Be My Guest, watch the new Beauty and the Beast movie in a local theater near you.
Score 4/5
