We have had the animated version, a human action version, and now with this show Disney has combined the two. Probably because the animated movie was such a masterpiece, I found the live action sequences falling a bit. In particular the "Be Our Guest" sequence fell flat. While much was made of Shania Twain's performance of "Beauty and the Beast" as paying tribute to the late great Angela Lansbury, nothing was mentioned about another Broadway and TV icon, Jerry Orbach, the voice of Lumiere in the animated movie, who passed away in 2004. It was Orbach's depiction of Lumiere in the style of Maurice Chevalier that added a light-hearted atmosphere to the story. Martin Short's depiction of Lumiere comes nowhere near it, and at times even dropped the French accent. However, the three leads- H. E. R. As Belle, Joshua Henry as Gaston, and Josh Groban as the Beast - were a joy. Their voices added to their characters and a delight to the ears.
Disney's casting of the main characters with diversity in mind is a laudable attempt (despite what some may say), and I hope they continue such projects. But they should understand - the original animated movie was about as perfect as possible - and if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Disney's casting of the main characters with diversity in mind is a laudable attempt (despite what some may say), and I hope they continue such projects. But they should understand - the original animated movie was about as perfect as possible - and if it ain't broke, don't fix it.