One of the most striking aspects of Beauty and the Beast is its animation, which combined traditional hand-drawn techniques with computer-generated imagery. The result was a movie that looked both classic yet modern, with fluid movements and richly detailed backgrounds, which earned it an Academy Award for Best Original Score, Best Original Song, and Best Original Song Score.
Yet, the movie’s beauty truly lies in its characters, who became some of Disney’s most beloved and complex creations. Belle, played by Paige O’Hara, defied the stereotypical Disney princesses of the time by being independent, intelligent, and passionate about books, instead of waiting for a prince to save her. That’s further highlighted by songs like “Belle”, where she celebrates her love for learning and sense of adventure, and “Something There,” where she realizes the Beast has qualities beyond his fur and fangs.
Meanwhile, the Beast, voiced by Robby Benson, transforms from a savage monster to a gentle soul, thanks to Belle’s compassion. He learns to let go of his anger and fear as he develops a friendship with Belle and finds joy in simple things like snowfall, library visits, and dancing. His journey is marked by powerful ballads like “If I Can’t Love Her” and “Transformation”, which infuse the story with a poignant emotional resonance.
Supporting characters like Gaston, Lumiere, Cogsworth, and Mrs. Potts, also brought a lot of humor, personality, and warmth to the movie, with memorable songs like “Be Our Guest” and “Gaston”. Even minor details, like the way their facial expressions were animated, added to their charm and appeal, making them just as important to the plot as the protagonists.
The themes of Beauty and the Beast are still relatable and inspiring today. The movie speaks of the importance of looking beyond appearances and stereotypes, of finding true love and companionship based on mutual respect and trust. It also encourages the pursuit of knowledge and the appreciation of art, literature, and music. Moreover, it suggests that anyone can change for the better, regardless of their past mistakes or flaws- a powerful message that resonates with children and adults alike.
Beauty and the Beast was so successful that it spawned a franchise, including a Broadway musical adaptation, a live-action remake in 2017, and various merchandise, books, and spin-offs. It’s even slated for a prequel TV series in 2022, which will delve into the origins of Gaston and LeFou. It’s a testament to the impact and longevity of the movie, which has touched generations with its timeless tale.
To conclude, Beauty and the Beast is a masterpiece of animation, music, and storytelling that stands the test of time. It’s a movie that continues to captivate and enchant audiences with its endearing characters, stunning visuals, and touching themes. As Belle sings in the movie’s opening number, “there must be more than this provincial life”, Beauty and the Beast proves that there’s always something extraordinary to be found in the most unexpected places.