There are some films so remarkable…their stories so timeless and compelling…that even 20 years later they have the capacity to evoke deep emotion.  Last Saturday, when I took my son to see Beauty and the Beast in 3D at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, I cried, much like I did the very first time I saw it as a tween.

It’s a story we know and love…about a strong and forward-thinking young woman who’s life plans extend beyond marriage and children.  At the moment, her adventures are experienced through books…but she has dreams…big dreams of exploring the world. She’s mostly misunderstood, and everyone around her unsuccessfully tries to fit her nicely into a box.

Many years before the story opens, a cruel young prince turned his back on an old beggar woman, who just happened to be an enchantress (in disguise) looking for a place to stay for the evening. To help the prince understand that “things are not always as they seem,” the enchantress turned him into a hideous beast.  Only true love…mutual love…can break that spell.

During a trip into the woods, Belle’s father, who just happens to be the town misfit, finds himself imprisoned by the beast for trespassing.  When Belle learns of her father’s predicament, she goes to the castle to find him.  Without any feasible option, she freely takes her father’s place as prisoner in order for him to tend to his health. It’s one of Belle’s numerous selfless acts in the film.  In an attempt to make the best of the situation, Belle befriends the staff….who also remain under the spell.  With their help, Belle learns to see past the Beast’s rough exterior and ends up falling in love with him.

Watching the film as an adult, I realize how inspirational and forward-thinking Belle is.  She’s a modern young woman, who refuses to conform to societal norms, yet a loving, devoted daughter unafraid to stand up for what she believes in.  She is giving and kind and receptive to whatever form love takes. She’s also not put off by appearances, knowing they can be deceiving.

Interestingly enough, the film lends itself well to 3D.  The scenic shots are stunning and provide depth and richness to the castle, the town, and the surrounding landscapes. Beauty and the Beast was developed during a time when animation was still very much hand-drawn, so the film’s adaptation to the 3D realm is impressive.

If you happen to live in LA, the El Capitan Theatre will offer showtimes through February 2nd.  Each showing includes a performance by Belle.  If you want a unique experience, you can take your children to Disney’s Soda Fountain & Studio Store for a character breakfast (this is right before the 10 am show) or simply enjoy Story Time with Belle.  The theater will also host a Tiny Tot screening at 10 am on Tuesday, January 17th.

No compensation was received for this post. All expenses related to the trip provided by Disney/DreamWorks.

Tags: 3DDisneyFilm