Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Disney fave has great music, strong messages, some scares.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Beauty and the Beast
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 79 parent reviews
Based on 104 kid reviews
Kids say the movie is a beloved Disney classic that captivates many with its beautiful animation, memorable songs, and positive moral lessons about inner beauty and personal growth. However, it also faces criticism for its problematic elements, such as the depiction of the romantic relationship between Belle and the Beast, which some view as unhealthy, as well as concerns about violent scenes that may unsettle younger audiences.
- classic appeal
- mixed messages
- positive role models
- beautiful animation
- controversial romance
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, curious young Belle (voiced by Paige O'Hara) leaves her village in search of her missing father, arriving at an enchanted castle where a prince has been cursed to live as a hideous Beast (Robby Benson) and his servants as living objects. Only true love can break the spell, but with Beast holding her prisoner and the townspeople plotting to kill him, can Belle see beyond his terrifying appearance in time to save him from his fate?
Is It Any Good?
Stellar music, brisk storytelling, delightful animation, and compelling characters make this a great animated feature for the whole family. Beauty and the Beast may not be Disney's most iconic movie, but it stands as one of the studio's crowning achievements, earning a Best Picture Oscar nomination (the first animated film to achieve that honor) and a Golden Globe for Best Picture.
In essence, all great stories are about transformation, and this one beats out even Cinderella as the ultimate makeover story, with Beast's inner transformation preceding his outer one. Belle remains as strong a role model now as she was when she was first created: She's confident to be herself and stick to her beliefs, even when they don't fit in with others' expectations.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Belle and Beast's first impressions of each other in Beauty and the Beast. What did they discover about each other as their relationship grew and as Beast learned humility and self-control? What message does that send to viewers?
As one of the popular Disney princesses, how is Belle similar to Cinderella and the Little Mermaid? How is she different? Do you consider her a role model?
How do the characters demonstrate compassion and empathy? Why are those important character strengths?
Why do you think Gaston was so surprised that Belle didn't want to marry him? How does their relationship poke fun at fairy tale clichés?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 22, 1991
- On DVD or streaming : October 4, 2011
- Cast : Paige O'Hara , Richard White , Robby Benson
- Directors : Gary Trousdale , Kirk Wise
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic , Fairy Tales ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Curiosity , Empathy , Humility , Self-control
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : nothing that would offend parents for viewing by children
- Awards : Academy Award , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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