It's actually rather hard to review this made for TV movie for a variety of reasons. First, it has not been re-shown for decades and so it's hard to remember it with full clarity. Plus, I saw this movie before I saw either the Jean Cocteau or Disney versions. It makes sense with the Disney version, as it came out long after most people's memory of the George C. Scott and Trish Van Devere version had dimmed. I remembered the film as extraordinarily well-acted and beautiful throughout--so much so, that I developed a real deep love for the story. Now with so many intervening years, I don't really know which version I like best--if they would only put this one on video I could find this out once and for all!
UPDATE: I finally DID find the film on YouTube. While the print isn't great, it is the movie in its entirety. Unfortunately, the soundtrack is out of sync slightly--and you will notice it. But, it's the only available version I know of at this time.
Fortunately, it turns out that this Hallmark version is much different than the other two more famous films. The French film by Jean Cocteau is much more artsy and poetic. The Disney version is the best cartoon ever made. This Hallmark one is lovely because it is so romantic-- with a much stronger emphasis on the relationship between Belle and Beast. It also has an interesting contrast because her family, for the most part, ends up being scum! All in all, a terrific made for TV film...about as good as I remembered!
UPDATE: I finally DID find the film on YouTube. While the print isn't great, it is the movie in its entirety. Unfortunately, the soundtrack is out of sync slightly--and you will notice it. But, it's the only available version I know of at this time.
Fortunately, it turns out that this Hallmark version is much different than the other two more famous films. The French film by Jean Cocteau is much more artsy and poetic. The Disney version is the best cartoon ever made. This Hallmark one is lovely because it is so romantic-- with a much stronger emphasis on the relationship between Belle and Beast. It also has an interesting contrast because her family, for the most part, ends up being scum! All in all, a terrific made for TV film...about as good as I remembered!