Saturday 18 March 2017

Beauty and the Beast (2017)

[***1/2 stars / *****] 

This live action remake of a 1991 animation classic plays it safe, but for little plot and character tweaks. By retaining the original soundtrack and musical storytelling, Disney mostly dampens the experience for young and adult audiences alike.

Characters mouthing songs at every opportunity is now a time-jaded medium. Yet two song picturizations bring out the film's best, classic moments. Gaston, a uproarious, witty, humorous song on vanity is good 3D fun. The Beast's anguish hits you harder in live action, via the heartrending Evermore. Applause for the original music composer, Alan Menken and the sharp-witted lyricists, Tim Rice and Howard Ashman.   

Emma Watson is perfectly cast as Bella. A dream role rendered almost perfectly. She is the film's strength, exuding courage, grace, and nobility.Dan Stevens is effective as the Beast. 

Luke Evans stands out as Gaston. Evans nails a role that could so easily be irritating and exaggerated. The much talked about 'gay' moment, is a blink-and-miss hint. 

Beauty and the Beast review  Classic in parts, and a good children's film otherwise, Beauty and the Beast (3D) is a pleasant one-time fantasy watch.No new daring territory is covered here, which is both a pity and joy. A joy, for Beauty and the Beast as a bedtime story for kids still echoes as relevant. For a darker, mature treatment, don't ask Disney ever. Never.    

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