The 2017 live-action adaptation of Disney's beloved classic, Beauty and the Beast, was a cinematic masterpiece that captivated audiences worldwide. One of the key elements that contributed to its success was the enchanting soundtrack, featuring a mix of iconic and new songs that brought the timeless tale to life. In this article, we will delve into the world of Beauty and the Beast's music, exploring the creative process, themes, and impact of the 2017 film's songs.

The Original Soundtrack: A Timeless Classic

The original Beauty and the Beast animated film, released in 1991, boasted a soundtrack that would become an integral part of Disney's musical heritage. The film's songs, written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, were instrumental in shaping the narrative and characters. The iconic "Be Our Guest" and "Beauty and the Beast" have since become synonymous with the Disney brand.

The 2017 Revamp: Adapting and Expanding the Musical Legacy

For the 2017 live-action adaptation, the filmmakers opted to retain the essence of the original soundtrack while introducing new songs to enhance the narrative. The task of adapting and expanding the musical legacy fell to Alan Menken, who returned to collaborate with lyricist Tim Rice. Menken's involvement ensured continuity with the original, while Rice brought a fresh perspective to the project.

The 2017 soundtrack features a total of 19 tracks, including the original songs from the 1991 film, as well as four new compositions. The new songs – "How Does a Moment Last Forever," "Days in the Sun," "Evermore," and "Gaston" (reworked from the original) – seamlessly integrate into the narrative, providing additional depth and emotional resonance.

Thematic Analysis: Love, Identity, and beautypg.com Empowerment

The songs in Beauty and the Beast (2017) can be broadly categorized into three themes: love, identity, and empowerment. These themes are woven throughout the narrative, with each song serving a specific purpose in advancing the story and character development.

Love: The film's central theme, love, is explored through various songs, including "Beauty and the Beast" and "Evermore." These ballads capture the blossoming romance between Belle and the Beast, highlighting the transformative power of love.
Identity: Songs like "How Does a Moment Last Forever" and "Days in the Sun" delve into the characters' inner struggles and aspirations. These tracks provide insight into the characters' motivations, desires, and sense of self.
Empowerment: The rousing "Be Our Guest" and "Gaston" showcase the film's more lighthearted and comedic moments, while also highlighting the themes of empowerment and self-aggrandizement.

The Impact of the Soundtrack: A Critical and Commercial Success

The Beauty and the Beast (2017) soundtrack was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. The film's music received numerous award nominations, including several Academy Award nods. The soundtrack's commercial success was equally impressive, with the album debuting at number three on the US Billboard 200 chart and achieving gold certification in several countries.

Vocal Performances: A Cast of Talented Singers

The 2017 film boasts an talented cast, with many actors showcasing their vocal prowess. Emma Watson (Belle) and Dan Stevens (Beast) deliver memorable performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters' musical numbers. The supporting cast, including Luke Evans (Gaston), Josh Gad (LeFou), and Emma Thompson (Mrs. Potts), also shine in their respective musical moments.

Conclusion: A Timeless Tale Reimagined through Music

The 2017 live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast is a testament to the enduring power of music in storytelling. The film's soundtrack, featuring a mix of iconic and new songs, has captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying the movie's place in Disney's musical legacy. As we continue to be enchanted by the tale of Belle and the Beast, the music remains an integral part of the narrative, reminding us of the transformative power of love, identity, and empowerment.

References:

Beauty and the Beast (2017) [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]. (2017). Walt Disney Records.
Menken, A. (2017). Interview with Alan Menken. The Guardian.
Rice, T. (2017). Interview with Tim Rice. The Telegraph.
Ashman, H., & Menken, A. (1991). Beauty and the Beast [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]. Walt Disney Records.

Appendix:

Song List:
+ "Overture"
+ "Main Title: Prologue"
+ "Belle"
+ "Belle (Reprise)"
+ "Gaston"
+ "Gaston (Reprise)"
+ "Be Our Guest"
+ "Something There"
+ "How Does a Moment Last Forever"
+ "Days in the Sun"
+ "Evermore"
+ "The Mob Song"
+ "Beauty and the Beast"
+ "How Does a Moment Last Forever (Montmartre)"
+ "Evermore (Dan Stevens Version)"
+ "Enchantée"
+ "Aria"
+ "The Beast"
+ "Something There (Unused Demo)"