Recently, the iconic Disney princesses have started to leave the animation world behind and venture into “real-life” characters.
Perhaps the trend started in 1994 when “Beauty and the Beast” first hit Broadway, displaying the character Belle and her beast in live action. However, it seems as if this fad started to take off again with the release of “Maleficent,” a tale that looks deeper into the relationship between a young Aurora (Sleeping Beauty) and the evil witch, Maleficent. Although this particular Sleeping Beauty story focuses on the protagonist as well as the antagonist, the audience is still able to gain even more information about the traditional tale and is able to see both characters in a different, non- animated light.
Though the Cinderella story has seen its number of remakes before, this year’s “Cinderella” remake is praised for its ability to bring the original, animated plot to life. Claudia Puig from USAtoday.com writes, “Most of all, it’s a visual treat. The lavish production design is baroque and meticulous, down to the detailed appliques on the dazzling costumes and individual beads on the palace chandeliers. Although the gowns at the ball are a swirl of gorgeous hues, the sumptuous dresses worn by Cate Blanchett — a superb villain as Cinderella’s fashion plate of an evil stepmother— are even more arresting.” In addition to a recently fresh remake, the Cinderella brand also promotes their “new- age” in a partnership with MAC Cosmetics. Offering a variety of glosses, eye shadows, and other pallets, that allow individuals to create a Cinderella inspired look of their own.
On Jan. 26 2015, Emma Watson announced via Facebook that she will be playing Belle in the new Disney film “Beauty and the Beast.” The post went viral as fans of Harry Potter and the actress herself feel as if Watson has proved to be an individual that has both the talent and beauty it takes to play this role. In fact, E! Online even joined in, posting an article titled, “10 Reasons Emma Watson Will Make the Best Belle Ever.” The release date has yet to be announced, but it seems as if fans of Belle and Watson alike will be waiting for this live-action fairy tale to hit the big screens.
