Classic Tale Energized With Unique Perspective

Read Time:3 Minute, 17 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Belle (Fanga)
NR/TV-14 –

Genre: Horror, Drama, Thriller, Fantasy, Romance
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Max Gold
Writer(s): Max Gold
Cast: Andrea Snædal, Ingi Hrafn Hilmarsson, Hana Vagnerová, Gudmundur Thorvaldsson, Helga Braga Jónsdóttir, Sigurður Sigurjónsson
Where To Watch: in select theaters on July 14, 2023, and On Demand on August 22. The film will be exclusively at the Harkins Theatres Gateway Pavilions 18 in Avondale, AZ, with more theaters to come.

RAVING REVIEW: Get ready to journey to Iceland’s stark and enchanting landscapes with Max Gold’s dark and vibrant film BELLE (it can be both!) Known internationally as FANGA, which translates to ‘prisoner,’ the movie is anything but a typical retelling of “Beauty and the Beast.” Gold injects horror elements, blending them with raw human emotions to create an extraordinary narrative.

Andrea Snædal takes center stage as Belle, a young woman burdened by the responsibility of caring for her ailing father on their isolated farm. In her quest for a mystical rose said to possess curative powers, Belle finds herself intertwined in a complex pact with a fearsome entity known as the Beast, personified by Ingi Hrafn Hilmarsson.

BELLE brings forth a mesmerizing dance of sacrifice and endurance as the characters navigate their hardships. The stoic Belle fights her battles with unwavering grace, whereas the Beast wrestles with a cruel curse that can only be broken by true love.

Here, Gold surpasses the outdated damsel-in-distress narrative, delivering a modern portrayal of feminism that starkly contrasts with Disney’s rendition. Belle is not a woman in distress but a warrior who believes in her ability to reverse the horrifying curse of the Beast. Despite frequently disregarding her desires, she strives to free her father and aid the Beast. This isn’t your standard take on Stockholm syndrome here!

The film seamlessly traverses societal norms, familial responsibilities, and the consequences of constant self-compromise. Amidst the heavy themes, it smartly integrates lighter moments of humor, offering the viewers some respite from its otherwise serious tone.

Belle’s character arc beautifully highlights the essence of “Fanga,” or being a prisoner. She becomes a captive in the literal sense and metaphorically as she strives to fulfill her duties following her mother’s demise.

Nico Navia’s stunning cinematography breathes life into Gold’s vision, creating a riveting spectacle that melds horror and beauty against the breathtaking Icelandic vistas. This careful fusion further amplifies the film’s intense narrative, eliciting a wave of emotions in the audience.

BELLE does not merely retell a beloved story; it questions what it means and how to translate it better. This film invites those seeking a captivating blend of folklore, horror, and dark humor. It unravels the tale in a way that keeps the viewers hooked till the very end.

The seemingly slow unfolding of the narrative is deceptive. The use of a minimal cast and the unveiling of hidden truths as the story progresses ensure constant suspense. The psychological depth of the Beast’s portrayal further enriches the narrative, creating an atmosphere of palpable unease.

Although some may perceive BELLE as slow-paced or lacking high-octane action, the film’s compelling storytelling and the spellbinding Icelandic landscapes ensure an immersive viewing experience. With its roots tracing back to Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve’s 1740 French story La Belle et La Bête (Beauty and the Beast), the story of Beauty and the Beast has witnessed numerous adaptations. However, Max Gold’s take on BELLE infuses a unique energy into this time-honored tale, offering viewers an enthralling perspective on a well-loved classic.

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[photo courtesy of LEVEL 33 ENTERTAINMENT]