BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

(2017) For twenty-six years Beauty and the Beast has remained my favorite of all of Disney's animated films; I still remember seeing it in a theater, alone, and marveling at the heart and soul captured so beautiful in a story that felt very personal to me. So naturally, even with a cast of some of my favorite currently-working actors, I was skeptical of a live-action remake tampering with perfection. Finally having seen it, to my relief Disney did so much right here - not the least of which was sticking very close to the original animated film without quite duplicating it shot by shot, or line by line. With some new songs, a few added scenes, and an excellent cast, this well-trodden story - about a prince cursed for his obstinance and pride, who must find true love (and get her to love him in return) to break the spell - that, somehow, comes off fresh and nearly as enchanting as its animated counterpart. Emma Watson and Dan Stevens shine in their title roles, backed up perfectly by an exceptional cast (Luke Evans, Kevin Kline, Emma Thompson, Ewan McGregor, Sir Ian McKellen, Josh Gad) that make this tale-as-old-as-time virtually sing anew for 2017. Oh, and Evans and Gad together on-screen, anytime, is freaking hilarious! (rated PG)  9.5/10 stars