March 25, 2011
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Beauty
I watched “Beauty and the Beast” tonight. I remember watching it in the theaters when it first came out. I had a tape and book set of all of the music. I memorized every word. I wore out the VHS. But I hadn’t seen it in probably 15 years. Not since the time that someone told me I wasn’t supposed to like those things anymore.
I didn’t realize how familiar it would be to watch again. How I knew almost every line before it was said. I didn’t remember how unrealistic it was. I mean, how did the villagers suddenly find the castle after all that time of being right there? He had to break the spell before 21, so he was 11 when he was changed into a beast (since “Be our Guest” said it had been ten years of rusting)? And so many other questions I found myself asking. I didn’t realize how much technology has changed. There are some scenes where Belle’s eyes just look weird and off balance.
And the romance. I have indulged in my own “Disney blaming” for unrealistic princes on white horses, but still—the movie blatantly indulges in every fantasy possible—including the whole “I can change him” and “he will put my desires above his own, but rescue me when I need it, without expecting anything in return.” And the beautiful dress and perfect figure as well. At least she isn’t blond.
There are some presents that aren’t the same when you open them again. But it is a nice smile at the past. Now I am ready for “The Little Mermaid.”
