Beauty and the Beast (2017), PG, 2 h 9 min
Beauty and the Beast
Runtime minutes: 129 minutes
Age rating: PG
Studio: Disney
Franchise: Beauty and the Beast
Franchise Position: 2nd major film adaptation
Tagline: Tale as old as time
Ratings
My rating: 7/10
Dove Foundation rating: Approved for Ages 8+
IMDb rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 71%
Metacritic rating: 65
Plot Summary
This live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic follows Belle, a bright and independent young woman who yearns for adventure. When her father is captured by a cursed Beast, Belle offers to take his place. As she gets to know the Beast and the enchanted castle’s magical inhabitants, she discovers the power of love to overcome curses and transform lives. The film expands on the original with new songs, deeper character development, and spectacular visuals, all while maintaining the story’s core message about looking beyond appearances.
Critics Review
Critics praised the 2017 Beauty and the Beast for its lavish production design, visual effects, and performances—especially Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast. While some reviews noted the film’s faithful retelling lacked surprise, it was celebrated for bringing the beloved story to life with emotional depth and musical grandeur. The new songs and expanded roles were generally well-received, though some critics found the pacing uneven.
Christian Perspective
The film upholds many Christian values such as love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption. Belle’s willingness to sacrifice herself for her father echoes Christlike selflessness. The Beast’s transformation highlights grace and repentance. The story encourages seeing beyond outer appearances to value inner beauty and character, reflecting biblical teachings on love and judgment.
Family Friendliness
Rated PG, the film is suitable for most families but includes some action and mild peril scenes that may require parental guidance for younger children. The movie promotes positive messages about kindness, acceptance, and courage, making it a good choice for family viewing.
Notable Scenes
Belle arriving at the enchanted castle
The “Be Our Guest” musical number with dazzling choreography and effects
The library scene where the Beast surprises Belle with a vast collection of books
The epic confrontation with the villagers led by Gaston
The climactic transformation of the Beast back into a prince
Notable Quotes
Belle: “I want much more than this provincial life.”
Beast: “You don’t lose hope, or true love, or your friends.”
Lumière: “Be our guest! Be our guest! Put our service to the test.”
Gaston: “No one’s slick as Gaston, no one’s quick as Gaston.”
Trivia
Emma Watson campaigned for Belle to be portrayed as a feminist role model and helped develop new backstory elements.
The enchanted objects were created using a blend of CGI and practical effects.
The film includes new songs written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice.
Luke Evans (Gaston) performed his own stunts in the film.
The film was shot primarily at Shepperton Studios in England.
Goofs / Continuity Errors
Belle’s dress color sometimes shifts between shots during the “Be Our Guest” sequence.
Some CGI effects occasionally show inconsistencies in lighting and shadows.
The village layout changes slightly between scenes.
Minor costume continuity issues with villagers’ outfits during battle scenes.
Notable Songs
“Belle” sung by Emma Watson
“Be Our Guest” sung by Ewan McGregor and cast
“Beauty and the Beast” sung by Ariana Grande and John Legend
“Gaston” sung by Luke Evans
“Evermore” sung by Dan Stevens
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