Here is a film which is as charming as it gets! Kids of all ages and adults too will enjoy this movie which is steeped in traditional myths and the original legend of beauty and the beast. The 3D effects are wonderful. I was particularly amazed by the scenes which take place in the woods as the branches seemed to literally lie before me and I could almost reach up and touch them. The entrance to a grand staircase inside the castle of the beast was also a great 3D experience as was the falling snow and rain.
The story is about Belle, a beautiful young woman who loves her Papa, Maurice. Papa, due to whirlwind circumstances, winds up seeking shelter at the castle of the beast and being taken captive. When Belle finally finds him she can only free him by pledging she will take his place and be a prisoner of Beast forever. Papa is freed but as time passes it becomes evident that Belle and Beast have a bit of chemistry. When she runs away he turns up just in time to save her from ravenous wolves and she, in turn, treats the wounds he incurs as a result of his rescue efforts. Belle loves books and Beast gives her an entire library to call her own. They obviously have formed a bond.
Ultimately the evil Gaston is determined to have Belle and keep her to himself, and only Belle’s love for Beast can remedy the situation for them all. This love can also set him free from a curse which turned him into a beast in the first place. This movie features terrific themes such as love and sacrifice and it easily has earned our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal. It features an elaborate dance number and song and the music is great. See this classic with your family soon and in 3D if possible. You just might make a great memory together as you watch this classic together. This one gets five Doves from us, our best rating.
