Beauty and the Beast (2017)

*Beauty and the Beast* (2017), Disney’s live-action adaptation of the classic animated film, brings the beloved fairy tale to life with a fresh yet faithful retelling. Directed by Bill Condon, the film stars Emma Watson as Belle, a bookish, headstrong young woman who finds herself held captive in a castle by the Beast (Dan Stevens). Over time, Belle learns that the Beast is under a powerful curse that can only be broken by true love.
The film’s visual design is stunning, with elaborate, opulent sets and costumes that evoke the story’s timeless, magical quality. The enchanted castle and its many talking objects—Lumière, Cogsworth, and Mrs. Potts—are brought to life with a mix of CGI and practical effects that make them feel charmingly authentic. The musical numbers, particularly classics like “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast,” are also lovingly reimagined, with some additional songs that enrich the characters’ backstories.
Emma Watson brings a modern, determined take to Belle, imbuing the character with strength and intelligence. While some critics found the singing performances somewhat restrained, Dan Stevens’ nuanced portrayal of the Beast adds depth to his transformation. The film also makes subtle updates to characters and their arcs, bringing diversity and contemporary themes of acceptance to the fairy tale without losing the original’s essence.
Overall, *Beauty and the Beast* (2017) successfully honors the charm and magic of Disney’s 1991 animated classic, offering a visually lush and emotionally resonant adaptation that appeals to both nostalgic fans and new viewers. While it doesn’t stray far from the original’s path, it remains a delightful, lavish experience.