‘Beauty And The Beast’ Review: Find Out How Luke Evans and Ewan McGregor Stole The Show

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Disney’s Beauty and the Beast manages to overcome some unnecessary tweaks to the narrative to deliver a fantastic experience for all.

Summary

Not much about this story has changed. Belle (Emma Watson) is a book-worm who uses her novels as an escape from her mundane existence in her tiny French village. The town heartthrob Gaston (Luke Evans) desperately want to wed Belle (mainly because she’s repulsed by him). However, Belle wants just to be left alone. Her father (played by Kevin Kline) heads off to sell one of his inventions at a local market, but takes a wrong turn and is imprisoned by a beast (Dan Stevens). Belle tracks down her father’s captor and offers to take his place, and her dad is set free. What some might see as this end of Belle, it might be the start of something special.

What Worked

Luke Evans was a fantastic choice to play Gaston. He was equal parts arrogant and childish. What made his portrayal of the most arrogant man in France so special was the smidge of humanity to the role. As Gaston is “wooing” Belle, he doesn’t understand how his moves don’t have the same effect it has had on many ladies. He comes off as hurt, but his hurt turns to anger rather quickly.

Ewan McGregor was a great pick to portray Lumière. While some have taken his issue with his less than perfect French accent, his character is meant to be eccentric, a showman, a lover, and compassionate person for which he pulls off in spades. If you are going to sit there and discuss “accents,” then this whole film is going to send you into a tizzy as most of the cast should sound French, and 3/4 of them sound English.

Bill Condon did a fine job staging some of the most important dance numbers in the film. His staging of “Be Our Guest” was fun, upbeat, colorful, and incredibly creative. The dance sequence with Belle and Beast while Miss Potts sings “Beauty and the Beast” was intense yet incredibly romantic. He could have taken the easy way out and had them do a simple waltz, but the number was not only period appropriate but had some difficult lifts. My personal favorite was the number “Gaston,” shot in a pub and one where Josh Gad (LeFou) showed off his musical theater savvy. Evans and Gad not only make this number fun, but execute many highly difficult dance numbers on top of the table.

How could you not appreciate the sexual ambiguity surrounding Josh Gad’s character LeFou? First off, if you are basing your decision to see this film on a report that this character is gay, then you are misinformed. Nothing in this movie gives you a definitive answer as to whether his character is a homosexual or not. Secondly, what does it even matter if he was? To just refer to his character by just his alleged sexual orientation demeans the character. LeFou is more of a comedic foil to Gaston and towards the second half of the film, his moral compass.

What Didn’t Work

Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos were both given the task of adapting Disney’s animated classic to its live action form. Chobsky is best known for his work in adapting The Perks of being a Wallflower and his partner Splliotopoulos is best known for writing The Huntsman: Winters War. I wished this writing team had picked up on the success of their predecessor Chris Weitz (the man who adapted Cinderella). Weitz maintained his focused on what he could do to enhance the narrative. Chobsky and Spilliotopoulos made little tweaks to the story with the purpose of making Belle appear more empowered. Why? Belle is plenty empowered, to begin with. Did I know why Belle’s father moved to a small remote village in France? Did we need a scene of her dying mother sacrificing to save Belle and her husband? Oh, Wait! Now that we have seen his mother being fearless, Belle is going to be the same. Chobsky and Spillotopoulos should have understood that they were caretakers of a popular narrative and focused on enhancing what was already there.

Final Thoughts

Beauty and The Beast overcomes the desires of a few overzealous screenwriters and delivers on many levels. If you are a hardcore Disney fan, seeing these iconic musical numbers executed in live action is astounding. If you are looking for a film that will entertain the entire family, you can’t ask for more than this.

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Review: ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Adds Just The Right Amount To A Classic Tale

By

Anthony Composto - EIC

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“Remake” is such a dirty word these days, but remaking a film isn’t inherently evil. There’s actually an art to it. On the one hand, you can’t stray too far from a story everyone loves. But at the same time, as artists, you don’t want to just rehash somebody else’s work. It’s a fine line, but Bill Condon’s Beauty and the Beast live-action remake walks it fairly well.

This film follows the same plot structure as the 1991 version, and features most of the same songs. It admittedly lacks some of the fun and charm of its predecessor, but if you liked the original work, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy this one.

What truly makes this remake worth watching is what it adds to the tale as old as time. The script manages to answer questions that fans have been asking for almost three decades. Like, why does no one in the village remember the prince that lives 10 minutes away? Or why is there a thriving bookstore in a town where no one reads? It may seem small, but filling in these plot holes does make the story more satisfying as a whole.

The best addition, however, is what’s added to the character of LeFou. He’s no longer just Gaston’s annoying sidekick. He’s now a character with actual depth, and an actual arc. The audience will actually find themselves getting invested in his story, instead of just brushing him off as a pest. The film as a whole doesn’t beat out the original Beauty and the Beast, but it at least does in its portrayal of this one side player.

Unfortunately, even with the vast improvement to LeFou, there doesn’t seem to be a standout character or performance in this movie. That’s not to say that the acting is bad; it’s fine. There’s just nothing worth praising. Last year’s Jungle Book remake was no masterpiece, but at least Idris Elba gave fans a brilliant Shere Khan that was worth talking about. Beauty and the Beast is missing that element.

There are also a handful of new songs on the soundtrack, but again, there’s not much to write home about here. The one possible exception is “Evermore,” the Beast’s new solo song. It feels important, and it’s powerful in the context of the story, but it’s not going to have the replay value that the original songs have.

The Bottom Line

The new Beauty and the Beast is a good time, no doubt about it. It’s the same story that fans know and love, with some brilliant twists and updates, and the production design is out of this world. Check it out when it hits theaters this weekend (but only if you’ve already seen Logan and Get Out).

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Did Samuel L. Jackson Confirm Red Skull’s Return To The MCU?

By

Aric Sweeny

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March 16, 2017

Samuel L. Jackson, the actor behind Nick Fury, was on Hot 97 to discuss racism, Kong: Skull Island, and Donald Trump. However, at the end of the interview, he was asked about Fury’s potential cameo in Black Panther. After denying his involvement in that project, Jackson then let a possible spoiler for Infinity War slip.

“You didn’t see me in Civil War. I’m still out there trying to figure out what The Skull is going to…”

Although the conversation derailed after that so he wasn’t able to complete his sentence, it sure sounds like Fury has been hunting the Red Skull after Avengers: Age of Ultron.

If you’re interested in hearing it from the actor himself, skip to about 34:00 in the video below.

Do you think Red Skull is coming back in Avengers: Infinity War? Comment below!

Avengers: Infinity War stars Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Benedict Cumberbatch, Benedict Wong, Scarlett Johansson, Brie Larson, Cobie Smulders, Elizabeth Olson, Jeremy Renner, Sebastian Stan, Peter Dinklage, Chadwick Boseman, Chris Hemsworth, Karen Gillian, Bradley Cooper, Samuel L. Jackson, Paul Rudd, Josh Brolin, Paul Bettany, and Mark Ruffalo.

Although no official synopsis has been released at this point, we can safely assume that Avengers: Infinity War will follow a story that includes Thanos, with the Infinity Gauntlet, taking on the Avengers. A more detailed plot summary will be released as the film’s release date nears.

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Actor Behind Colossus Wants The Character To Appear On ‘Legion’

By

Aric Sweeny

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March 16, 2017

Stefan Kapicic, who played Colossus in Deadpool and is reprising the role in the sequel, revealed that he wants the character to pop up in Legion.

“[Legion] It gets so clever, it gets so specific. The way it’s directed, the way the acting is there. For example, if you ask me what I would like to show up in … and I don’t know the rules between the studios or whatever … I would love to have a guest appearance in Legion or in a new X-men show as Colossus.

I think that that would be something like a new step to combine the film and TV show characters. Of course, you have a Marvel universe and you have Defenders now and you have like all those amazing shows, but I’m talking from my … like I say, Fox perspective.

It would be perfect if you can combine characters just like Colossus to show up in Legion or in new X-men show with Stephen Moyer, I don’t know the name.”

Do you want to see Colossus on the show? Comment below!

Legion airs Wednesday nights at at 10 p.m. on FX; Deadpool 2 is slated for a theater release in 2018.

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Beer Spotlight: Bloomington Brewing Co. ‘Kirkwood Cream Ale’

By

Devon Kenney

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March 15, 2017

Kirkwood Cream Ale

Bloomington Brewing Company is a local Indiana brewery, right in the heart of Bloomington. They are responsible for several of Hoosier favorites, including Rooftop IPA, Ruby Bloom, and Quarrymen.

Today, we will be talking about their staple item, Kirkwood Cream Ale.

Coming in at 4.9% and 11 IBUs, the Kirkwood is a lovely cream ale. Crisp, light, and refreshing, this beer has been put up as a go to lighter ale for a lot of Indiana beer drinkers. Its taps sit next to those of Bud, Bud light, and Miller.

The only thing wrong with this beer is that it isn’t available across the states to drink it. It is distributed amongst Indiana by North Vernon Beverage Co and Cavalier Distributing.

With cream ales becoming more and more of a popular item, Kirkwood very well has a great one for the top of the list. Easy drinking beers are always wanted and needed at bars and tap houses alike. Kirkwood can even be a session, being only 4.9%, you can have a couple and still have that flavor, without feeling overwhelmingly full.

Pouring is one of those magical skills, that if you do it right, the beer tastes worlds better. To pour a Kirkwood, you tip the glass to the side, and pour, filling up 3/4 of the way. You set the glass down, and let the head settle. Kirkwood has an amazing foam build and the aroma that makes your mouth water.

Made with only Liberty hops, it is a single hop beverage. Pale, Amber, and Flaked Maize malts make it a more complex drink.

Ratebeer.com gives it a 42 overall, and beer advocate hasn’t had enough votes to give a number yet.

Try it, rate it, and love it.

Find everything Bloomington, including Kirkwood on www.bloomingtonbrew.com

“We make beers we like to drink.” Bloomington Brewing

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Learn About Ego the Living Planet’s Powers In ‘Guardians Vol. 2’

By

Aric Sweeny

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March 15, 2017

While promoting The Belko Experiment, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 director James Gunn talked about Kurt Russel’s character, Ego the Living Planet.

“Ego is a living planet who is able to manifest himself in different ways. he’s been alone for millions of years and he’s learned how to control the molecules around him in such a way as to create avatars of themselves, such as Kurt Russell. I think Ego was a very lonely character out there by himself and went off in search of love and perhaps found it in Quill’s mother.”

Are you looking forward to Russel’s portrayal of the character? Comment below!

Plot synopsis: “Set to the backdrop of ‘Awesome Mixtape #2,’ Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes’ aid as the Marvel cinematic universe continues to expand.”

Guardians Vol. 2 stars Chriss Pratt as Star-Lord/Peter Quill, Zoe Saldana as Gamora, Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket Raccoon, Vin Diesel as the voice of Groot, Michael Rooker as Yondu, Kurt Russel as Ego The Living Planet, Karen Gillian as Nebula, Dave Bautista as Drax, Pom Klementieff as Mantis, Sean Gunn as Kraglin, and Sylvester Stallone in a currently unknown role. The film is directed by James Gunn.

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‘Guardians of the Galaxy’: James Gunn On Team’s Role In ‘Infinity War’

By

Aric Sweeny

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March 15, 2017

While speaking to Complex about his upcoming film, The Belko Experiment, James Gunn commented on the Guardians of the Galaxy‘s role in Avengers: Infinity War.

“I don’t think we should overstate things that it is an Avengers movie, but the Guardians are a part of the cosmic universe, they’re a part of Thanos’ stories, so, they are in there, and they have, not the biggest, but, an integral part to that.”

Sounds like everyone’s favorite team of anti-heroes will have a key role in the next Avengers film.

What are your thoughts on Gunn’s remark? Which Guardian will have the biggest role? Let us know in the comments below.

Avengers: Infinity War stars Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Benedict Cumberbatch, Benedict Wong, Scarlett Johansson, Brie Larson, Cobie Smulders, Elizabeth Olson, Jeremy Renner, Sebastian Stan, Peter Dinklage, Chadwick Boseman, Chris Hemsworth, Karen Gillian, Bradley Cooper, Samuel L. Jackson, Paul Rudd, Josh Brolin, Paul Bettany, and Mark Ruffalo.

Although no official synopsis has been released at this point, we can safely assume that Avengers: Infinity War will follow a story that includes Thanos, with the Infinity Gauntlet, taking on the Avengers. A more detailed plot summary will be released as the film’s release date nears.

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About Last Night – Episode 4: ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Review

By

EJ Moreno

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March 15, 2017

Monkeys Fighting Robots Exclusive: ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Video Review

About Last Night is a movie review show, where movie critic EJ Moreno talks about the film he saw last night. This week’s episode is about the film ‘Beauty and the Beast‘.

The Disney film ‘Beauty and the Beast‘ makes its grand return! In a remake of the 1991 animated feature, this live-action adaption tells a tale as old as time.

It stars Emma Watson as Belle, Dan Stevens as Beast, and Luke Evans as the villainous Gaston. The film is directed by Bill Condon.

Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Look for the newest Disney film in theaters nationwide, on March 17th.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fCGR0jNG2A&t=29s

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James Gunn Confirms A Third ‘Guardians Of The Galaxy’ Movie

By

Kieran McLean

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March 15, 2017

James Gunn recently sat down with Complex to discuss his new movie The Belko Experiment but of course, the interviewer needed to ask some questions about Guardians of the Galaxy. The director of Marvel’s galactic a-holes was asked if he’s planning to direct a third film, and we can now rest assured that the Guardians of the Galaxy will at least be a trilogy.

“There will be a Guardians 3, that’s for sure. We’re trying to figure it out. I’m trying to figure out what I want to do really, that’s all it is. I got to figure out where I want to be, what I want to spend the next three years of my life doing. You know, I’m going to make another big movie; is it the Guardians or something else? I’m just going to figure it out over the next couple of weeks.”

It wouldn’t be a massive surprise to see James Gunn do another project before jumping back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, I’m just happy to see that Gunn will return for a third movie. This franchise and these characters are in great hands with him as the director and I wouldn’t want to see them handled by anyone else.

Are you happy that a third Guardians of the Galaxy movie will happen? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below!

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Power Rangers Will Have Cameos And A Mid-Credits Scene

By

Jonathan Bruce

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March 15, 2017

Power Rangers is shaping up to be a great flick. What’s more, there will be cameos from former Ranger actors and a mid-credits scene.

Two original cast members from the show will have cameo roles in the film, according to sources.

Cinemablend reports they are Jason David Frank and Amy Jo Johnson. They are known to fans as the Green Ranger and Pink Ranger, respectively. Sadly, fellow actors Austin St. John, David Yost and Walter Jones will not join them.

Director Dean Israelite states that Frank and Johnson are in the film. “Yeah, you saw them,” he says. “Those were really the two that we thought were important to put in there.”

Finally, there is a bonus scene that hints at Tommy Oliver, who becomes the Green Ranger. As Israelite says, “We’re teasing something at the end that relates to [Tommy] so it sort of all felt organic.”

The scene takes place during the end credits. It will take place in a detention hall. While Tommy doesn’t appear, his name is called out by a teacher taking attendance.

Based on this news, the film’s sequel could adapt the show’s “Green With Evil” four-part story arc. This would be a great way to bring Tommy into the mix.

Power Rangers comes out on March 24, 2017.

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