Beauty and the Beast Review: A Magical Masterpiece.

Rating: 10/10 (19 March 2017)

What a treat, Bill Condon and his star-studded cast, have in store for their Disney followers this Spring; a soul-enchanting, heart-racing, nail-biting adaptation of the well-loved Disney fairy-tale. Beauty and the Beast is the story of an independent young girl, from a rural French village, who selflessly sacrifices her own freedom for her fathers', after he is imprisoned by a prince, who has been transformed into a beast, as punishment his selfish actions.
Whilst most of us are familiar with the fantasy story, originally penned in 1740 by French author, Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, (now there's a mouthful), you may be surprised to hear that Condon has remained faithful to almost every mesmerising moment of Disney's 1991 animation, whilst filling gaps in the story line, which were not addressed in their original adaptation; for example, the thought-provoking question of what had happened to Belle's mother.
One of the key additions to the story line, is the introduction of a magical atlas that allows Belle (played by Emma Watson) and the Beast (played by Dan Stevens) to visit her birthplace in Paris, where she learns that her mother died after falling victim to the plague. Whilst this deviates from the original, these small contextual complements, give the story a new depth and an element of authenticity.
What many viewers will find interesting too, is the new crafting of a homosexual story line, between the infamous Gaston (played by Luke Evans) and his smitten sidekick LeFou. This is, of course, likely to raise a few eyebrows, and even draw disapproval from some circles, many of whom have already voiced their opinion that it is apparently "unsuitable for younger viewers", despite giggling over the sexual innuendo between Lumiere and his French-maid girlfriend. I prefer to see this as a symbol of advancement in the social views of modern society. The references are tastefully scripted and humorously presented by the talented Josh Gad (who plays LeFou). Some may argue that this comedic effect contradicts the argument of equality, but I would counter that with a reminder that the element of comedy presented in a 'camp' manner, merely fits with LeFou's long-held jester-like character, and is not connected directly with the fact that he is gay. Not all gay men are camp, after all, but LeFou, even in the original Disney animation, was regarded as rather ostentatious.
Watson's performance, as Belle, is positively captivating, whilst Dan Stevens' deep and dulcet tones will win over far more than just the heroine's heart. With the talents of Ewan McGregor, Ian McKellan and Emma Thompson playing the parts of Lumiere, Cogsworth and Mrs Potts, respectively, this all-star cast will have you singing along and laughing like a child all over again. A beautiful adaptation of a beautiful tale. This fun-filled, fantasy is a Disney delight for the whole family.