Rated G
Reviewed by: Jim
March 9, 2002		Released by: Walt Disney Pictures

This 1991 instant classic from Walt Disney Pictures hits new heights on giant screens worldwide in celebration of its tenth anniversary.  Reformatted from its computer generated production (Disney's second digitally animated film), the result is a pristine print with dimensionality and enhanced levels that makes the viewer in awe of something which almost transcends itself through the wonders of technology.

For those who want to see more of terrific animation so much more real than the majority of live action features, Beauty and the Beast is magnified to make an ideal fantasy tale truly a magical and joyous one.

The opening which explains how the Beast came to be from his actions as a young prince shows a castle that is as ornate and ominous as any seen on film.  The Gothic architecture is strikingly detailed and the importance of a rose protected by a glass covering is coveted by the Beast.

The beauty is Belle and in her comfortable French village three centuries ago she finds escape by reading and doesn't think the brawny Gaston who is pursuing her is vary manly, more oafish.

In her life is her amiable, doting father who has come up with a device that chops wood neatly and quick.  He soon gets lost on a stormy night while traveling in the forest and winds up a prisoner in the Beast's enormous castle.  Belle knows something is wrong and is out to find him.  Eventually, a critical romance begins which will entail some harrowing moments after Belle's efforts land her in the presence of the towering lion of a monster.

Besides the leads, there are lively secondary characters that add to the film's warmth and wit.  In the Beast's spellbound, staggering sanctuary reside household items which serve his primary needs.  Lumiere is a candlestick, Cogsworth, a clock, Mrs. Potts, a teapot whose son is Chip. They know what kind of influence Belle can provide to their haunted, withdrawn master.

The memorable choreographed numbers which include the funny "Gaston."  "Be Our Guest" gives a Busby Berkeley quality to a cheery way Belle is greeted by the personified castle inhabitants and Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Potts sings the title song with understated emotion.

What Beauty and the Beast does so well is entertain with elegance and admiration for its audience.  The new insertion of "Human Again" is the extra number added here which complements the swirling camera work seen often in this enchanting masterpiece.