Cast of Beauty and the Beast (2017 Film): The 2017 live-action adaptation of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast brought an enchanting mix of nostalgia, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances. Directed by Bill Condon, the film was a retelling of the beloved 1991 animated classic, featuring a star-studded cast that brought to life the iconic characters. From the passionate Belle to the cursed Beast, the cast of Beauty and the Beast (2017 film) included both established and rising stars, each contributing their unique touch to make the movie a modern-day classic.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the talented actors and actresses who made this movie so memorable, exploring their roles, their performances, and how they brought the magical world of Beauty and the Beast to life. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the classic tale or just discovering this beautiful adaptation, understanding the cast of Beauty and the Beast (2017 film) adds another layer of appreciation to this spectacular work of art.
The Lead Characters
Emma Watson as Belle: The Bookish Beauty
One of the most anticipated roles in the 2017 live-action remake was that of Belle, the book-loving, strong-willed heroine. Emma Watson, known for her portrayal of Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, was cast in this iconic role. Her portrayal of Belle was not only faithful to the animated version but also gave the character a modern twist.
Emma Watson’s Belle is independent, intelligent, and more than capable of standing up for herself. Her performance shines through in scenes such as the opening number “Belle” and the memorable dance with the Beast. Watson’s vocal performance, while not as operatic as the animated Belle, is charming and fitting for the character’s down-to-earth persona. Beyond her acting, Watson’s advocacy for gender equality and empowerment mirrored the character’s values, making her portrayal resonate with a new generation of fans.
Dan Stevens as The Beast: A Cursed Prince in Disguise
Dan Stevens brought depth and complexity to the character of the Beast, a role that required not only strong acting skills but also physicality. Before Beauty and the Beast, Stevens was known for his roles in television dramas like Downton Abbey and Legion, but playing the Beast in a live-action Disney film required him to embody both the anger and vulnerability of a prince cursed into a terrifying creature.
The Beast’s character undergoes significant growth throughout the film, from a monstrous, arrogant figure to a gentle and compassionate soul. Stevens, who portrayed the Beast both in physical makeup and via motion capture for the character’s CGI transformations, showcased remarkable emotional range. His performance was a delicate balance between anger and kindness, creating a Beast that audiences could empathize with, even while his appearance was intimidating.
Luke Evans as Gaston: The Charming Villain
No Beauty and the Beast film would be complete without its antagonist, and Luke Evans took on the role of Gaston with charm, confidence, and a touch of menace. Evans is known for his versatility as an actor, having appeared in films such as The Hobbit trilogy and Fast & Furious 6. His performance as Gaston is a fine blend of arrogance, vanity, and cruelty, with an underlying comedic element that adds to the character’s theatricality.
Evans’ portrayal of Gaston is both menacing and humorous, giving the character an edge that fits perfectly within the film’s more grounded setting. His vocal performance, particularly in the song “Gaston,” is energetic and memorable, capturing the over-the-top nature of the character. His dynamic with Josh Gad’s LeFou adds to the comedy, but also provides a deeper look at Gaston’s insecurities and desire for control.
Supporting Cast and Iconic Roles
Kevin Kline as Maurice: The Eccentric Inventor
Kevin Kline brought warmth, humor, and tenderness to the role of Maurice, Belle’s loving and eccentric father. Maurice is a central figure in the story, both as the catalyst for Belle’s journey and as a symbol of familial love. Kline, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor, infuses the character with a sense of whimsy and vulnerability that resonates with audiences.
The film expands Maurice’s role beyond the animated version, giving him a more active role in the story. Kline’s performance in moments like Maurice’s capture by the Beast and his touching interaction with Belle adds emotional depth to the film. Kline’s natural comedic timing also shines through in moments of levity, balancing the more serious aspects of the film.
Josh Gad as LeFou: The Loyal Sidekick
Josh Gad’s portrayal of LeFou, Gaston’s bumbling but loyal sidekick, brought an additional layer of humor to the film. Gad, known for his roles in Frozen and The Wedding Ringer, was able to add a level of vulnerability to the character, making him more than just a comic foil. LeFou’s relationship with Gaston, while comedic, also explores the complexity of friendship, loyalty, and self-worth.
One of the most significant aspects of Gad’s performance was his portrayal of LeFou’s inner conflict. Although he admires Gaston’s charisma, LeFou slowly begins to realize the true nature of his friend’s cruelty. Gad’s portrayal of LeFou adds a human element to the character, making him more than just the villain’s sidekick. His musical number, “Gaston,” with Luke Evans, is one of the film’s comedic highlights.
FAQs
Who plays Belle in the 2017 Beauty and the Beast?
Emma Watson, famously known for portraying Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, stars as Belle in the 2017 live-action remake. Her performance as the bookish, strong-willed heroine was praised for its depth and modern sensibility. Watson brought a fresh take to Belle while remaining faithful to the original animated character.
Who plays the Beast in the 2017 film?
Dan Stevens, known for his roles in Downton Abbey and Legion, portrays the Beast in the 2017 adaptation. Stevens used motion capture technology to bring the Beast to life, combining his emotional depth with the CGI effects that transformed him into the fearsome creature. His portrayal captures the complexity of the character, from the Beast’s anger to his eventual redemption.
Who plays Gaston in Beauty and the Beast (2017)?
Luke Evans takes on the role of the charming yet villainous Gaston. Known for his roles in The Hobbit trilogy and Fast & Furious 6, Evans delivers a perfect balance of charisma and menace, making Gaston one of the most memorable antagonists in Disney’s live-action remakes. His portrayal adds a layer of comedic arrogance to the character, particularly in the famous song “Gaston.”
Who plays LeFou in the 2017 Beauty and the Beast?
Josh Gad portrays LeFou, Gaston’s loyal but conflicted sidekick. Gad is well-known for voicing Olaf in Disney’s Frozen franchise. In this live-action adaptation, Gad brings both comedic charm and emotional depth to LeFou, especially as his character begins to question Gaston’s behavior. LeFou’s relationship with Gaston is central to the film’s dynamic, and Gad’s performance adds a unique element of vulnerability to the character.
Who plays Maurice in Beauty and the Beast (2017)?
Kevin Kline plays Maurice, Belle’s loving but quirky inventor father. Kline, an Oscar-winning actor known for his roles in films like A Fish Called Wanda and The Last Five Years, brings warmth and humor to the role. The live-action version of Maurice has a more prominent role than in the original animation, and Kline’s performance provides the character with more depth.
In Summary
The cast of Beauty and the Beast (2017) truly brought the beloved characters of this timeless tale to life with their incredible talent and performances. From Emma Watson’s portrayal of Belle to Dan Stevens’ transformation into the Beast, the actors gave audiences a fresh yet faithful adaptation of the classic Disney film. Whether they were bringing humor, heart, or menace to their roles, each actor played a pivotal part in making Beauty and the Beast a memorable and magical cinematic experience.
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