Beauty and the Beast

I know this movie may come off as a childish animated movie, but stick with me. This movie is set in a small town in France in the 1800s. The main character Belle is known in her town for her exquisite beauty, but also as weird because she likes to read and has no interest in the town hero, Gaston. Belle's father is an inventor and is also seen as odd. On his way to a convention Belle's father gets lost and ends up in the Beast's castle. The Beast once lived a luxurious and lavish life, but was shallow and rude. He had a spell cast on him to turn him into a beast and he has the chance-until he turns 21-to fall in love and receive it otherwise he will remain a hideous beast forever. The Beast locks up Belle's dad and when she comes looking for him she takes his spot and becomes the Beast's prisoner. At first the Beast is rude and impatient and Belle is upset. However, as time goes on Belle and the Beast fall in love. Belle shows great patience with the Beast as he is very temperamental. Belle also shows optimism, she made the best out of a terrible situation. Instead of pouting she tried to connect with the Beast and develop a friendship. Another strength Belle shows earlier in the movie is interest in the world. Belle is not content with just relying on her looks, she wants to attain as much knowledge as possible. The Beast develops his strength for appreciating beauty, he sees that there is more to life than money and materials. This realization eventually sets him free. The Beast also learns some sort of patience, that he cannot just order Belle around like a slave if he wants to connect with her. The Beast also shows loyalty and forgiveness after her allows Belle to leave and she does. He is extremely hurt by her decision, but still comes to her rescue. Both Belle and the Beast show the capacity to love and be loved. This may seem simple, but from the context of the movie neither character has really ever been in love, nor been interested in the concept. I think a strength not listed on the VIA, but is shown is a bravery to being different. Belle never let harsh words or societies expectations effect her, she was going to be who she wanted to be regardless. This really is my favorite movie because other than the beauty part I really see myself in Belle and have since I was young. The strengths I most share with Belle are patience and optimism. I also share the Beast's strengths of forgiveness and loyalty. Oh yeah they end up together, happy ending and all.