This movie is such a beautiful love story, though it didn’t start out that way. It’s a true depiction of real life unfolding through a fantasy film meant for children who may not yet understand its depth, and adults who grow to treasure it more with time.
From the very beginning, Belle was sure of herself. Confident. Grounded. And that confidence attracted Gaston. He was a man with shallow character and not much depth or purpose of his own. Belle, on the other hand, had a bright future and Gaston saw that. Instead of growing himself, he tried to attach himself to her, to leech onto what she carried.
The movie also showed the love of a father…one who had already endured so much heartache after losing his wife, Belle’s mother. His desire to protect his daughter was rooted in love, even if it appeared reckless at times. Many parents can relate to that kind of love: risking it all just to show up for your child. And when he was captured, Belle stepped in and showed us just how deep love should be…..by offering herself in place of her father.
In doing so, she endured emotional and verbal abuse from the Beast. Yet she never lost herself. She remained true to her character. She didn’t allow someone else’s inability to emotionally connect due to hurt, misfortune, or even a curse to change who she was. And it was her consistency, her compassion, and her strength that slowly softened a heart that had grown cold.
As his heart changed, so did his actions. He warmed to her. He freed her. He honored her ability to make her own choices and supported her decisions. And because of the faith and hope he held, that if love was real, she would return. Belle was able to save her father once again. This time, she chose to go back. Not out of obligation, but out of love.
And we know the ending.
Their time together and apart caused them to fall deeply in love and restored what had been lost.
This story shows us hope. Inspiration. Persistence. Free will. And the beauty of unconditional love. It reveals protection, safety, understanding, and resilience. It gives us a glimpse of magic and joy while modeling a non-persuasive approach to loving who you choose. It reminds us that saying no is okay. That our actions have consequences. That adversity does not mean the end, there is always the possibility of something brighter.
It teaches us not to overlook the poor or the unfortunate. That people deserve to be treated equally, with dignity and respect. That helping others matters because we never truly know who we are entertaining…or denying.
Beauty and the Beast reminds us that anything is possible if we only believe and choose to hold onto hope in all things.
I’d like to hear your thoughts and if the movie provokes emotion within you.
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