There was a lot of hype surrounding the live-action remake of the classic Beauty and the Beast film, so I was a bit nervous that the build-up would trump the movie. Boy, was I wrong.

Each character was carefully casted and able to portray long-time favorites, the setting transported viewers to another world, and the musical numbers did not disappoint. Simply put, it was a magical experience from start to finish.

Let’s start with the setting. Each set was vibrant and full of life. The quaint French town was bursting with energy during the film’s opening number, “Belle.” It was hard not to feel transported to another time and place with rolling green fields, quaint specialty shops, and the local villagers bustling around the town. As Belle weaved in and out of the crowded cobblestone streets, viewers can feel her story to coming to life.

On the other hand, the castle took on a completely different vibe. While its fortress towered high, it managed to also appear abandoned with a deserted front terrace, dust-strewn furniture, and vast, empty rooms topped with high ceilings.

As for the enchanted objects, the film depicted them with charm and life. I held my breath afraid that the Mrs. Potts, Lumiere, and other enchanted objects would be depicted a bit cheesy, but overall the film did a good job of making their curse seem believable.

Since the film’s graphics and sounds are top notch, the action-packed moments can be a bit intense. Little ones may find themselves covering their eyes during scene when the wolves attack in the forest, as well as the “Kill the Beast” scene. Luckily, it’s easy to forget these moments when the following scenes are sure to dazzle and delight.

That aside, if you are looking for a new and exciting storyline, you’re watching the wrong film. Beauty and the Beast mostly sticks to the beloved Disney classic (if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right?!). That being said, there are a few additions that add nice touches to the film.

Without giving too much away, in true Emma Watson style, Belle is depicted as even more of a kick-butt kind of girl. In addition to her love of books, we also get to see her as a progressive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) thinker, much like her father. Additionally, we get a better understanding of the backstory between Belle’s mother and father. Lastly, while LeFou still manages to serve as the film’s main source of comic relief during otherwise tense moments, his character develops more than we’ve seen in the past and he is portrayed as much more than Gaston’s sidekick.

The live-action film also introduces three new songs: “How Does a Moment Last Forever,” which is a slow, sweet melody that ties in Belle’s parents’ story, and later her own. “Days in the Sun” gives audiences a look at the Beast’s tragic childhood, and all the enchanted objects’ lives before they were cursed by the sorcerer. Lastly, “Evermore” is the Beast’s big ballad after he parts ways with Belle.

As for the musical numbers that fans know and love, the film went above and beyond. “Be Our Guest,” is a standout performance with fireworks, explosions, big notes, and so much more bouncing off the screen. The moment we’ve all been waiting for, “Beauty and the Beast,” features magic that mesmerizes the audience and brings to life the timeless Disney moment.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast will be able to reach audiences of all ages. For kids, it captures the magic that they still believe in. As for teens, adults, grandparents, and everyone in between, it transports them back to the days of fairytale adventures.

About the author

Stephanie Grassullo

Stephanie Grassullo

Stephanie Grassullo is an associate editor at Adventure Publishing Group. In addition to handling toy and licensing news and updates for The Toy Book and The Licensing Book, Stephanie also writes toy reviews and commentaries for the Toy Insider. When she’s not binge-watching old episodes of Gossip Girl, Stephanie is always game for Boggle tournaments—she’s the titleholder Boggle champion in her family, and proud of it! Stephanie firmly believes that there is no awkward moment that can’t be remedied with the help of Bop It. To get to know her better, follow her on Twitter @steph_grass.

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