Why “Beauty and the Beast” was actually pretty great:
the music is not good, it’s great
production design, costumes (even the freaking yellow dress which is actually quite gorgeous on camera), everything is truly beautiful and quite breathtaking at moments
the acting was surprisingly wonderful. it’s disney, it’ll be cheesy at moments—but for the most part, it was terrific
this is not a childish adaptation
when it gets dark, it gets DARK.
g a s t o n
new songs! new character development!
the cgi is not even that bad. in fact, there are moments when it’s pretty seamless. the practical sets and effects compensated for it, in my mind.
and when it’s wonky? you won’t care because you’ll be too busy smiling
there is some hilarious shit in this movie
the beast’s expressions are actually amazing; you can really see the actor moving beneath them
T H E M U S I C
you get to see little kids and adults all freaking out the whole time
SIR IAN MCKELLEN PLAYS A CLOCK AND IS AWESOME AT IT
emma watson will make your heart stop she is so beautiful
sneaky political/ethical gestures that made me cheer
this movie is so pure and we need that right now
and by the end? i just started laughing and crying—in excess joy. i couldn’t believe it. i’ve never been moved by a movie like that in my life.
it won’t please everybody but if you loved the original and if you are prepared to attempt to enjoy it for what it is—a colorful, painterly, vibrant adaptation of a beloved story—then go watch it.
