Beauty and the Beast 2017
Rated: PG
Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, and a ton of other celebrities

The Trailer:

The Gist: It’s a tale as old as time.

My Thoughts:

• I’ll admit. I was a little nervous going into March 17.
• I made the decision to watch Beauty and the Beast 2017 in both regular and IMAX theaters. My food budget is blown for the week, but that’s okay. I felt I needed to see it in both venues to truly capture the magic. My verdict? Either version should suffice, but the castle is way cooler in 3D.
• The opening sequence and musical score still give me chills after all these years.
• Did I see Emma Watson as Hermione Granger? About half the time. When she gets angry, her Gryffindor spunk sneaks out.
• Can Emma sing? Yes. Is she going on Broadway anytime soon to pursue a singing career? Probably not.
• I wanted Belle to be a bit more playful. She’s a strong, independent woman, which I totally get. She stands up for herself and has a servant’s heart. But I found myself willing her to just relax.
• As my fears predicted, I thought Gaston (Luke Evans) was too mean. I wanted more sarcasm. There were a few one-liners that landed beautifully, but his personality in general had a rougher edge the entire movie.
• Gaston / Luke Evans = G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S.
• The Beast = H-A-N-D-S-O-M-E.
• The Beast’s Voice = A-T-T-R-A-C-T-I-V-E.
• I’d date the Beast in beast form. Or as Matthew / Dan Stevens. Either one. Doesn’t matter to me. CALL ME!
• Truly, I was not distracted by the CGI-ness of the Beast. In fact, just as the storyline dictates, he endeared himself to me as the romance progressed. I embraced him fully after the library scene.
• Watch for a snowball exchange. You may die laughing.
• Josh Gad plays La Fou. I heard Olaf’s voice a few times. I got over it.
• His song with Gaston follows the theatrical version of Beauty and the Beast. There’s a lot of foot stomping that creates a back beat. I loved it!
• The ballroom scene is magical. I wanted my own version of the yellow ball gown, until I saw Belle’s finale gown. Can someone make me a less billowy version of that one?
• “Be Our Guest” takes its time building into something glorious. It was ten times better in 3D.
• It took me a while to get on board with Cogsworth, Lumiere, Mrs. Potts, and company. But once I did, I appreciated the animation behind their characters. Especially when they turn back into household items.
• Chip is everything.
• Philippe is the most obedient horse on the planet.
• Everyone can sing. I suggest you purchase the soundtrack. Even the new songs are worth considering for a permanent place in your iTunes library. Ariana Grande and John Legend sing the quintessential “Beauty and the Beast” ballad. They are no Celine and Peabo, but they make it their own. It’s worth staying to watch the closing credits.

Survey Says:
I love a good romance and the fact that there’s a powerful message in Beauty and the Beast is icing on the cake. We should all take heart not to be deceived by appearances.

For beauty is found within.