In case you somehow missed the recent wave of nostalgia-stoking announcements, Disney is all about the live-action remakes right now. In the past two months alone, live-action updates of confirmed classics like Aladdin and Snow White were put into motion following the success of Jon Favreau's take on The Jungle Book back in April. But first up: Bill Condon's Beauty and the Beast.
"There was something about her indignation and rebelliousness which I really loved, to be honest," Emma Watson, who plays Belle, told Entertainment Weeklylast week. "It troubles her that she doesn't necessarily fit in, but I think she really holds close to her heart her dreams and her aspirations. She was definitely a role model." To ensure the role model vibes continue with the new version of the OG 1991 animated gem, Watson noted that a few details have been tweaked. Instead of Maurice rocking the virtues of the inventor lifestyle, for example, that distinction has now been given to Belle.
Condon's Beauty and the Beast also stars Dan Stevens, Kevin Kline, Josh Gad, Luke Evans, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Ian McKellen, and Emma Thompson. Peep it when it hits theaters Mar. 17, 2017. If beasts and castles aren’t really your thing, just wait. Disney is also giving the live-action treatment to The Lion King.
