Fanga

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.

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!

I love when a film is more than just entertainment and Belle does not disappoint. In this gorgeous film, you get reminded of the magic this planet has to offer and you want to do more to respect it while exploring its power. You are then drawn in to the incredible strength and impossible decisions we dismiss as life and realize no matter who or when or where, we are all similar. Lastly, when you think you know a tale from your childhood you find new thrills in seeing how it can be told another way. Part thriller, part love story, part finding your power, part landscape art, and completely made with undying dedication from a team that overcame their own harrowing situations to make a long-dreamt of fairytale...go see it.

An Icelandic version of the story of Beauty and the Beast. Belle lives with her father, who became very sick. Her blood on the rose that the Beast protects can cure her father, and she goes to the cave, gets her blood on the rose, and takes it to the enchantress who makes a drink from it. Her father drinks it, and is immediately well. But there is an 'unless'. The spell lasts until sunrise, unless she chooses to live with the Beast. She decides to go to the Beast, and find out what the rules are, and if there is another 'unless'. He doesn't have any food for her, so she seeks out the plants that are edible, and offers some to the Beast. Simple to say, he is not a vegetarian. And unless the Beast falls in love with her, he cannot change. But she won't leave him since then her father will die. The scenery is beautiful, but the movie is not really all that special to rate a high score.

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.