About Beauty and the Beast

Released in 1991, 'Beauty and the Beast' is a beloved animation film produced by Walt Disney Pictures. It's the tale of a conceited prince who is turned into a beast as punishment for his arrogance. His only hope for redemption and to return to his normal form is to win the love of a woman named Belle. Belle is a young, intelligent, and compassionate woman who unhappy with the limited life she is leading in her small village. When her father is held captive by the beast, Belle offers herself instead and discovers the kind prince within.

Making / Production

Directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise, 'Beauty and the Beast' is based on the French fairytale of the same name by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken had been brought onto the film and composed the film's beautiful soundtrack.

Actors

• Paige O'Hara: Voiced Belle, the intelligent and compassionate heroine of the film. O'Hara's performance is widely acclaimed for its warmth and depth.
• Robbie Benson: Voiced the Beast, a prince who had been transformed into a hideous beast. Benson's dynamic performance brought this complex character to life.
• Richard White: Voiced Gaston, the film's boorish and egotistical antagonist. White's performance was filled with flair and arrogance, perfectly capturing Gaston.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• 'Beauty and the Beast' was the first animated film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.
• The film took about four years to produce, with more than 600 animators and artists contributing to the film's production.
• The film's antagonist, Gaston, was initially going to be named Gaston LeGume. His last name LeGume translates to "the Vegetable", reflecting his 'pea-brained' personality.

Awards

'Beauty and the Beast' won Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song, and was nominated for several other awards including Best Picture and Best Sound.

Quotes

• "It’s not until you lose everything that you can truly appreciate everything."
• "She warned him not to be deceived by appearances, for beauty is found within."
• "If you love something, let it go. If it comes back to you, it’s yours."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Be Our Guest": This is a lively tune sung as Belle is welcomed into the Beast's castle.
• "Something There": This song reflects the growing feelings of Belle and Beast towards each other.
• "Beauty and the Beast": The title track of the movie, also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.