When I heard Disney was making a live-action Beauty and the Beast I was immediately curious about two things: how they would interpret the iconic yellow gown worn by Belle and how they would depict the Beast. After all, so much of the character’s charm is definitely tied to his animated look. As of today, I can rest easy because I have the answers to both those questions. Entertainment Weekly has revealed a look at their upcoming cover with Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens’ Beast in elegant dancing attire.
I’m utterly enchanted.
It looks like Disney is staying on track with what they’ve done for other live-action films such as Cinderella: they’re keeping the essence of what we know from the original film and adding a new coat of paint. Of course, I’m only talking about this on a superficial level since we haven’t seen any real footage from the movie. But based on these first looks, I think they’re nailing it. This take on the beast looks like the right mix of intimidating and dignified. Yes, I can tell this from a single profile photo.
Update: Disney has released high-res images – check them out in the gallery below!
Update: Empire Magazine has another close-up look at Luke Evans as Gaston, as he attempts to woo Belle in this poor, provincial town.
The adaptation of the 1991 animated film is set to hit theaters on March 17, 2017, and EW‘s next issue goes behind the scenes. They talked to the cast, director Bill Condon, and costume designer Jacqueline Durran and scored photos of several characters and some scoop on new songs that will be featured in the film. The issue will be available on November 4.
What do you think of this take on Belle’s classic ball gown? And how about the live-action version of Beast? Share your thoughts with me in the comments.
Images: Disney, Entertainment Weekly/Disney
Get a further glimpse at what’s in store from the new Beauty and the Beast below
