Beauty and the Beast (1991)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  8 / 10

  Beauty and the Beast is one of the most defining animations in Disney's filmography. The 80's were tough for the animation studio, with several films facing mediocrity. But wait, what's that glistening in the early Renaissance era? It can only be the most magical, whimsical and classic fairytale of them all. The most beautiful girl in town gives up her life of freedom for her father's sake and is imprisoned in an enchanted castle for eternity, eventually forming a close bond with a cursed man who is turned into a ferocious beast. Only true love can break the spell! The pinnacle of musical animations, the epitome of true romance, the magnum opus of singing candlesticks! It's a sweeping love story that conveys the all important message of "personality over looks". No one likes a vain narcissist, instead we much prefer a gentleman who, at first sulks like a prepubescent teenager, yet learns to treat the ladies correctly. Then we throw in Disney magic ranging from anthropomorphised household objects to musical numbers. Those songs...I haven't stopped singing them. Every time I watch this I randomly exclaim "Be...Our...GUEST! Be our guest, put our service to the test!" in a French accent (naturally) which is a testimony to the staying power of this musical. It's so delightful and nostalgic that I can't help but gleefully smile. The animation itself is beautifully hand drawn with extremely vibrant colours. The dark monochromatic castle juxtaposing the vivid colourful town. The voice acting was spot on, particularly Lansbury and Orbach. The pace is incredibly swift moving, perhaps slightly too rapid for its own good. Beast's human form cracks me every time I watch the transformation scene, he just looks so...fake? Like he has had tonnes of plastic surgery. Also the final few minutes of Gaston were slightly underwhelming, I wanted more from him. It's by no means my favourite animation, yet it's safe to say it's one of Disney's most accessible and a strong contender during the Renaissance period. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to finish performing...

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