Disney has introduced live-action remakes of its classic animated movies in recent years, and, while some have been better than others, the remake of Beauty And The Beast was very enjoyable. Disney took a big risk in tackling this particular movie, mainly because the original was so successful and popular that remaking it would be as controversial as remaking the original Star Wars trilogy.
But, one of the reasons the animated version did so well was its soundtrack. It created some of Disney's all-time greatest hits, and redoing those songs was always going to be a challenge. However, it's something that this movie handled very well, all while adding a couple of excellent new additions at the same time. But, which song was best?
"How Does A Moment Last Forever"
This was one of the newer songs that was added in for the live-action, giving the character of Maurice a song to sing. In comparison to the other numbers in the movie, this one is very calm and relaxed, and it actually feels very stripped back and almost bare.
Because of that, it isn't quite as catchy and memorable as some of the other songs, and it doesn't stand out as much. Still, there's no denying that the emotion of the song really punches through, which is the ultimate goal with this one.
"Aria"
There's no denying that Audra McDonald has got an incredible voice, and that much is on display during this new song that is added to the live-action movie. However, it doesn't really fit the tone of the movie when compared to the rest of the music that makes up this soundtrack. This is a very operatic moment, and it certainly showcases her fantastic vocal ability. However, in terms of the movie, it's one of the least memorable songs.
"How Does A Moment Last Forever (Montmartre)"
This song comes much later on in the movie than the first version by Maurice, and this time it is Belle that provides the vocals. This one benefits from more investment in the character and the emotional aspect of the story, making it far more impactful than the previous version.
It's another emotional and slow moment, but it's one that really works well within the movie and is a great addition when focusing on Belle's life and what happened in the past.
"Beauty And The Beast (Finale)"
Coming at the end of the movie, this song acts as the big finish, and it once again repeats the classic song that everyone knows and loves. However, this time it isn't just Emma Watson singing; there's a whole host of other characters getting involved. While it does feel like one big celebration, which is a fun way to end the movie, it's not as good as the main version of this song, which is more stripped back and emotional.
"Be Our Guest"
It's impossible not to sing along with this song, simply because it is a Disney classic and one of the greatest songs the company has created. However, it is because of that nostalgia that this song works in this movie, as this particular version isn't anywhere near as good.
Ewan McGregor is a fantastic singer, but, when his French accent is added into the mix, this version just doesn't hit at the same level as its original counterpart, and it ends up being one of the weaker songs in the movie.
"The Mob Song"
Much like "Be Our Guest," this particular version isn't quite as strong as the original. However, it is still an incredibly enjoyable song with the villains all building together to charge the castle and it showcases Gaston as he is at his most vile.
However, the song really does have a catchy melody, and it also adds in some great moments of story development for LeFou, who even showcases that he is judging Gaston and his behavior, which is a fun addition.
"Something There"
Another of the original songs that made its return here, this song is a very important one in the story, and the live-action version of the movie handled that very well. The performances are brilliant, and it really does showcase the changing personalities of Belle and Beast.
It's a song that has plenty of heart and is quite an uptempo track, which is one that easily becomes one of the more memorable songs throughout the movie.
"Days In The Sun"
This song was another new addition to the live-action version of the movie and was one that really did enhance the movie. It wasn't a case of adding a song for the sake of it; this felt like it had a purpose and it gave real emotion to all of the characters, who are clearly longing for more.
It's a beautifully written song and one that just gives the audience an extra reason to connect with everybody involved. An ensemble track, it has a lot of unique parts which meld together particularly well and add an incredible amount of character.
"Belle"
This was one song that really didn't need any tweaks or changes, as it proved to be the perfect way to introduce the character of Belle. Because it's such an iconic number, there was some real pressure on Emma Watson to deliver here, and she did a fantastic job.
She really captured the essence of what Belle is all about, and the interactions she has with the other characters really are enjoyable to watch within the scene. It's a brilliant song that is well put together, and is one that is arguably even stronger than the original.
"Belle (Reprise)"
While the main version of this song is one that everybody knows well and has a lot of different characters popping in, this is Belle's major moment on her own. She gets to run out to the fields after rejecting Gaston and belts out the major musical moment, which is a real showcase of the strength and intelligence of the character.
She wants more than what her current life is providing, and it instantly gives audiences a reason to care. Emma Watson puts a great performance into this one, really showing how talented of a singer she is.
"Beauty And The Beast"
Emma Watson had some huge shoes to fill with her performance of this iconic Disney Princess song, as the original Angela Lansbury version is very popular. She certainly does a very good job at that, putting in a fantastic vocal performance that brings just as much emotion as the original.
It's a fantastic song that really does work perfectly within this movie, and Emma Watson's version of it is just as enjoyable, which certainly allows it to be one of the best songs within this movie overall.
"Evermore"
Out of all the new songs that were put into the live-action version of the movie, "Evermore" is comfortably the strongest. Giving the Beast his own solo song was an excellent decision, really showcasing the heartache he feels after letting Belle go, accepting his fate to remain in that physical state forever.
It's an incredible number that really hits some huge heights in terms of vocals, with the instrumental sections matching it all the way. Dan Stevens provides an amazing performance here, which really helps to make it one of the highlights of the movie.
"Gaston"
This is one of the real hits from the original movie, but the combination of Josh Gad and Luke Evans really does take this version to a whole new level. Josh Gad is a scene-stealer whenever he appears as LeFou in this movie, and the personality and charisma he injects into this performance really screams Broadway in the best way possible.
Then, when Luke Evans comes in with his incredibly strong vocals, the song only goes to the next level. It's not easy to take classic songs and actually make them better, but this particular version really does enhance the song, especially with the musical breakdown in the middle, which creates a fantastic moment in the movie.