Beauty and the Beast (2017) Review: A Beautifully Crafted Live-Action Adaptation

Introduction

Disney’s live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast (2017) was highly anticipated and eagerly awaited by fans of the 1991 animated classic. Directed by Bill Condon, this adaptation promised to bring the beloved fairy tale to life with stunning visuals, a star-studded cast, and memorable music. The original Beauty and the Beast is considered one of Disney’s most iconic films, and the live-action version aimed to honor that legacy while offering a fresh take on the timeless story.

In this review, we’ll explore the plot, performances, visual effects, and music of the film, as well as how it compares to the original animated feature. Does this live-action version live up to the magic of the original, or does it fall short? Let’s dive in.

The Plot: Faithful to the Classic

The plot of Beauty and the Beast (2017) stays remarkably faithful to the 1991 animated version, with only a few updates to expand the backstory of the characters and provide more depth to their motivations. The story follows Belle (Emma Watson), a young woman in a small French village who dreams of adventure beyond her mundane life. Belle’s life takes a dramatic turn when her father, Maurice (Kevin Kline), is captured by the Beast (Dan Stevens) in his enchanted castle.

In exchange for her father’s freedom, Belle offers herself as a prisoner in the Beast’s place. As she spends more time in the castle, Belle begins to form a bond with the Beast, discovering the layers of complexity beneath his gruff exterior. Meanwhile, the Beast’s servants, who have been cursed into enchanted objects, hope that Belle’s love will break the curse and return them to their human forms.

The central themes of love, acceptance, and inner beauty are well-maintained in this adaptation, and the plot’s progression closely mirrors that of the original film. However, the live-action version includes additional scenes and songs that help flesh out the characters, particularly Belle and the Beast, giving audiences a deeper understanding of their pasts and motivations.

Cast and Performances: A Star-Studded Ensemble

One of the standout aspects of Beauty and the Beast (2017) is its stellar cast, which brings the characters to life with charm and nuance. Emma Watson as Belle was a natural choice for the role, and she shines in her portrayal of the independent and strong-willed heroine. Watson’s performance is both relatable and enchanting, and she brings a sense of warmth and intelligence to Belle, which adds depth to the character.

Dan Stevens as the Beast is a standout in terms of both voice work and physical performance. While the use of motion capture technology was crucial in creating the Beast’s appearance, Stevens brings emotional depth to the character, making him sympathetic despite his initial gruffness. The Beast’s transformation, both physically and emotionally, is conveyed beautifully, thanks to Stevens’ performance.

Other notable performances include Luke Evans as Gaston, the arrogant and villainous suitor, and Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s devoted father. Josh Gad provides comic relief as Gaston’s sidekick, LeFou, bringing a lighthearted yet endearing touch to the role. The supporting cast, including Ewan McGregor, Ian McKellen, Audra McDonald, and Emma Thompson, as the enchanted servants, provide solid performances that complement the main characters and add to the film’s charm.

Visuals and CGI: A Magical World

The visuals in Beauty and the Beast (2017) are truly breathtaking. The film’s production design, costumes, and set pieces transport the audience to an enchanted world, bringing the fairy tale to life in a way that feels magical and immersive. The Beast’s castle, with its towering spires, grand halls, and lush gardens, is a visual marvel that serves as the perfect backdrop for the story.

The CGI used to create the enchanted objects—such as Lumière (Ewan McGregor), Cogsworth (Ian McKellen), and Mrs. Potts (Emma Thompson)—is seamless and enhances the magical atmosphere of the film. While some of the CGI characters may seem a little too cartoonish at times, the overall effect is enchanting and helps to bring the fairy-tale world to life.

The transformation sequences are also visually stunning, with the most memorable being the iconic ballroom dance scene. The choreography, combined with the breathtaking CGI and lighting, creates a romantic and unforgettable moment that beautifully captures the essence of the film.

Music and Soundtrack: Timeless Classics with a Fresh Twist

The music of Beauty and the Beast (2017) is one of the most beloved aspects of the original film, and the live-action version stays true to the classic songs that made the animated film so iconic. The title track, “Beauty and the Beast,” is as magical as ever, with Emma Thompson (as Mrs. Potts) delivering a heartfelt rendition of the song during a pivotal moment in the film.

New songs were also introduced to expand on the characters and story. “How Does a Moment Last Forever”, sung by Maurice, adds emotional depth to his character and serves as a reminder of the importance of love and memories. Additionally, “Evermore”, sung by the Beast, is a powerful ballad that explores his emotional transformation, giving a more profound insight into his internal struggles.

The soundtrack as a whole is a beautiful blend of old and new, and the orchestrations and arrangements maintain the timeless charm of the original while offering something fresh and modern.

Themes: Love, Acceptance, and Inner Beauty

The central theme of Beauty and the Beast (2017) is love, particularly the transformative power of love. The film explores how love can break curses, heal wounds, and change people for the better. It also touches on the importance of inner beauty over external appearances, as both Belle and the Beast learn that true beauty comes from kindness, compassion, and understanding.

The film also delves into the idea of personal growth and redemption. The Beast’s journey from a selfish and arrogant prince to a selfless and loving individual mirrors Belle’s own transformation as she discovers that she is capable of more than she initially thought.

Comparison to the Original: Does It Live Up to the Classic?

While the 2017 live-action version of Beauty and the Beast stays largely faithful to the original, it adds a few extra layers to the characters and storyline that enhance the emotional depth and provide new context. The visuals and CGI enhance the fairy-tale atmosphere, and the performances from the cast bring new life to the beloved characters.

However, for some fans, the original animated film will always hold a special place in their hearts, and no live-action remake can fully replace that magic. Nonetheless, Beauty and the Beast (2017) is a successful adaptation that complements the original while offering something new and exciting.

Final Verdict: A Beautiful and Heartwarming Adaptation

Beauty and the Beast (2017) is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant live-action remake that successfully honors the legacy of the original animated film. With a strong cast, breathtaking visuals, and a timeless soundtrack, the film captures the magic of the fairy tale while adding depth to its characters and themes.

Whether you’re a fan of the original or a newcomer to the story, this live-action version is sure to captivate and entertain. It’s a beautiful reminder that true beauty lies within, and that love has the power to change the world.