Fanga

This is a much watch! The scenery is out of this world - the director and crew chose the most beautiful settings. The acting is incredible - you can really feel their emotions and you can tell how much fun they all had making this together. The cinematography is unique and creative - a breath of fresh air in a world of movies that all have the same shots. The story takes you on a journey that keeps you on the edge of your seat - the script really ropes you in. I think the witch was my favorite character - her raw emotion is so tangible and real. And did I mention the scenery? I know I did... it's just too good not to mention twice. Fantastic film can't wait to watch and rewatch again and again!

Belle (formerly named Fanga) is a stunning love story that transports the viewer to magical and scenic Iceland. Excellent casting -featuring an entirely Icelandic cast-makes this version of the classic tale unique. The storyline has twists and turns that keep the viewer guessing. For those who like a little blood and gore, Belle delivers. I loved seeing the character of Belle portrayed as a strong and determined young woman and heroine. The Beast is a hunk. Reminded me of Fabio. Beautifully shot. Many of the panoramic scenes took my breathe away. Would highly recommend and will definitely watch again!

Best experienced on a big TV with a great sound system, Belle will transport you to Iceland for an unexpected journey through the character's eyes. The original "Beauty and the Beast myth" kind of serves like a a lighthouse on a far shore in the background, while this darker, psychological take on it ventures out into the uncharted depths of Belle's unconscious. This is not a horror film; it's a story of Belle and the Beast navigating the territory that's most terrifying of all: falling in love.

Excellent and subtle performances by Ingi (the Beast), Andrea (Belle), Hana (The Witch), incredible cinematography by Nico Navia, resourceful and thoughtful production design by Susan Huyett, deliberate and sophisticated editing by Patrick Lawrence, and glorious score by Matt Orenstein.

I've read this script dozens of times, been to all the filming locations in Iceland, met the director, cinematographer, editor, producer, and composer, and each time I've watched Belle in theaters and at home I've noticed something new and found myself falling in love with the story or the characters or the music or Iceland a little bit more. "Jeez," you might say, "does this guy just love the movie, or is he somewhere on the spectrum? Or was he maybe the Assistant Director?" And if I was in front of you when you asked those three questions, I would give an emphatic, "Yup" to each.

More seriously, I've never felt I fully believed Belle in any adaptation of the fairytale until this one. So thanks, Max and all for helping me finally get it.

The film was quite beautiful. It transports you through the countryside of Iceland, which was magical in and of itself. The film overall is a well acted fairytale. The leads are real standouts, and the supporting cast is compromised of pros of Icelandic cinema. A bit of a slow burn, but definitely worth sticking around. There's an odd humor sprinkled throughout, which helps moves the film along. The score was also pretty magnificent and supported the "character," of the scenery quite nicely. The movie pairs well with a rainy day indoors, proceeding your trip abroad, with a glass of red wine in hand.