Belle's Voice: Beauty And The Beast Analysis

Hey guys! Ever wondered what makes Belle's voice in Beauty and the Beast so captivating? Well, let's dive deep into what makes it so special. Beauty and the Beast remains a timeless classic, enchanting audiences with its memorable characters, stunning animation, and, of course, its unforgettable soundtrack. Among the film's many highlights, Belle’s voice stands out, bringing depth, emotion, and charm to the beloved Disney princess. In this article, we'll explore the nuances of Belle's voice, examining the actresses who brought her to life and the vocal qualities that make her songs and dialogues so compelling. From Paige O'Hara's Broadway-honed vocals to Emma Watson's more naturalistic approach, we'll uncover how each performance contributes to Belle’s enduring appeal. So, grab your enchanted roses, and let’s explore the magic behind Belle’s voice!

The Original Belle: Paige O'Hara

When we think of Belle's singing voice, most of us immediately picture Paige O'Hara. Paige O'Hara is an American actress, singer, and painter, widely recognized for her role as the voice of Belle in Disney's animated film Beauty and the Beast (1991) and in subsequent related media, including direct-to-video releases and television series. Her portrayal of Belle is considered iconic, and she has been lauded for her vocal performance, which brings warmth, intelligence, and a touch of vulnerability to the character. O'Hara began her career on Broadway, appearing in musicals such as Showboat and Les Misérables. Her experience on stage equipped her with the vocal stamina and expressive capabilities necessary to bring Belle to life. She was chosen from over 500 hopefuls. When O'Hara auditioned for the role of Belle, she brought a unique blend of Broadway polish and genuine emotion to the character. Her audition captivated the filmmakers, who were seeking a voice that could convey both Belle’s intelligence and her compassionate nature. O'Hara’s Broadway background gave her a distinctive edge. Her experience in musical theater provided her with exceptional vocal control, allowing her to navigate the complex melodies and emotional nuances of Belle’s songs. She understood how to use her voice to tell a story, bringing depth and authenticity to her performance. One of the standout qualities of O'Hara’s voice is her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. In songs like "Belle," she captures the character’s yearning for adventure and her dissatisfaction with the provincial life. In "Something There," she portrays Belle’s growing affection for the Beast with subtlety and warmth. And in the climactic moments of the film, her voice brims with determination and love. Beyond her vocal talents, O'Hara also brought a deep understanding of Belle’s character to the role. She saw Belle as more than just a princess; she recognized her intelligence, her independence, and her compassion. This understanding informed her performance, making Belle a relatable and inspiring character for audiences of all ages. O'Hara’s voice is clear, strong, and expressive, perfectly capturing Belle's intelligence and kindness. Her Broadway background shines through, giving Belle's songs a polished, theatrical quality. She reprised her role in numerous sequels and spin-offs, solidifying her place as the definitive voice of Belle.

Emma Watson's Naturalistic Belle

Fast forward to the live-action adaptation in 2017, and we have Emma Watson taking on the role. Emma Watson is an English actress and activist, known for her roles in both blockbuster films and independent projects. She gained international fame for her portrayal of Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, a role she played from 2001 to 2011. Following the conclusion of the Harry Potter films, Watson pursued a diverse range of acting roles, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to her craft. Her performance as Belle in the 2017 live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast marked a significant departure from her earlier work, showcasing her ability to bring depth and nuance to a beloved Disney character. Watson’s casting as Belle generated considerable excitement among fans of both the actress and the original animated film. Known for her intelligence, activism, and natural beauty, Watson seemed like a perfect fit for the role of the book-loving, independent-minded Belle. However, unlike Paige O'Hara, Watson was not primarily known for her singing abilities, which raised questions about how she would handle the musical aspects of the film. Watson approached the role with a desire to bring a more realistic and relatable quality to Belle. She worked with vocal coaches to prepare for the musical numbers, but she also emphasized the importance of staying true to her own voice and style. Her goal was not to replicate O'Hara’s Broadway-style performance but to create a version of Belle that felt authentic and grounded in reality. One of the defining characteristics of Watson’s performance is her naturalistic approach. Her singing voice is less polished than O'Hara’s, but it conveys a sense of vulnerability and sincerity that resonates with audiences. In songs like "Something There," Watson’s voice cracks slightly with emotion, adding a layer of authenticity to the character’s growing feelings for the Beast. Watson’s acting choices also contributed to her naturalistic portrayal of Belle. She emphasized Belle’s intelligence and curiosity, portraying her as a proactive and independent young woman who is not afraid to challenge societal norms. Her Belle is not just a damsel in distress but a strong and resourceful heroine who takes control of her own destiny. While Watson's singing isn't as polished as O'Hara's, it brings a raw, emotional honesty to the character. She aimed for a more natural and relatable portrayal, and her slightly less perfect vocals add to that authenticity. For me, this was a nice change.

Vocal Styles Compared: Broadway vs. Naturalism

So, what are the key differences in vocal styles between Paige O'Hara and Emma Watson? Well, O'Hara brings a Broadway-trained voice to Belle, full of power and projection. It's a classic Disney sound, polished and perfect. In contrast, Watson goes for a more naturalistic approach. Her voice is less polished, but it feels more real and relatable. It’s like comparing a perfectly staged theater production to an indie film – both have their own charm. The choice between these vocal styles often depends on the overall vision for the production. Animated films, like the original Beauty and the Beast, tend to favor the polished, larger-than-life quality of Broadway vocals. This style enhances the fantastical elements of the story and creates a sense of timelessness. Live-action adaptations, on the other hand, often strive for a greater sense of realism, which can be better achieved with a more naturalistic vocal approach. Naturalistic vocals can help to ground the story in reality, making the characters and their emotions feel more authentic. This approach can be particularly effective in connecting with modern audiences, who may be more accustomed to hearing pop and indie music styles than traditional Broadway fare. Ultimately, the success of a vocal performance depends on how well it serves the story and the character. Both Paige O'Hara and Emma Watson brought their own unique talents and perspectives to the role of Belle, and both delivered performances that resonated with audiences in different ways. Their contrasting vocal styles reflect the different approaches taken in the animated and live-action adaptations, each contributing to the enduring appeal of Beauty and the Beast. When you consider each style, both capture the spirit of Belle in their own way. O'Hara's voice soars with theatrical flair, while Watson's voice whispers with intimate emotion. Each approach enhances the storytelling, depending on the medium.

The Impact of Belle's Voice on the Character

Belle's voice is so much more than just singing; it defines her character. It reflects her intelligence, kindness, and independence. O'Hara's powerful voice showcases Belle's strength, while Watson's softer tones highlight her vulnerability. The way Belle speaks and sings is integral to how we perceive her. Her voice conveys her intelligence, her compassion, and her determination to see beyond appearances. In both the animated and live-action versions of Beauty and the Beast, Belle’s voice serves as a window into her soul, revealing her inner thoughts and emotions. In the animated film, O'Hara’s voice captures Belle’s yearning for adventure and her dissatisfaction with the provincial life. When she sings about wanting “so much more than they’ve got planned,” her voice brims with longing and determination. This vocal performance establishes Belle as a character who dreams big and refuses to settle for mediocrity. In the live-action adaptation, Watson’s voice conveys Belle’s intelligence and curiosity. When she speaks about her love of books and her desire to learn, her voice is filled with enthusiasm and passion. This portrayal highlights Belle as an intellectual and a free thinker, challenging the traditional expectations of women in her time. Moreover, Belle’s voice is a tool for expressing her compassion and empathy. In both versions of the story, Belle uses her voice to comfort and connect with others, including the Beast. Her gentle and soothing tones help to break down his defenses and reveal the kindness that lies beneath his gruff exterior. This ability to connect with others through her voice is a testament to Belle’s inner beauty and her capacity for love. When she sings about seeing “something there that wasn’t there before,” her voice radiates warmth and understanding. This vocal performance underscores Belle’s ability to see beyond appearances and to recognize the humanity in others, even when it is hidden beneath layers of anger and pain.

Memorable Songs and Vocal Performances

Let's not forget the memorable songs! "Belle" introduces us to her character and her dreams. "Something There" shows her growing affection for the Beast. And "Beauty and the Beast" (the title song) is a timeless classic that encapsulates the movie's themes. Each song is elevated by the vocal performances, making them unforgettable. These songs are more than just catchy tunes; they are integral to the storytelling, conveying emotions and advancing the plot. In "Belle," O'Hara’s voice brims with longing and dissatisfaction as she sings about her desire for adventure. The energy and emotion in her voice set the stage for Belle’s journey, highlighting her yearning for a world beyond her provincial village. In "Something There," both O'Hara and Watson capture Belle’s growing affection for the Beast, albeit in different ways. O'Hara’s voice is filled with warmth and tenderness, while Watson’s voice conveys a sense of vulnerability and surprise. Both performances underscore the transformative power of love and the importance of seeing beyond appearances. And then there's the title track, "Beauty and the Beast". This iconic song is sung by Angela Lansbury in the animated film and by Ariana Grande and John Legend in the live-action adaptation. Each version captures the timeless beauty and romance of the story, emphasizing the themes of love, acceptance, and inner beauty. Lansbury’s voice is warm and comforting, while Grande and Legend bring a contemporary flair to the classic melody. The song's lyrics encapsulate the message that true beauty lies within, and that love can blossom in the most unexpected places.

The Enduring Legacy of Belle's Voice

In conclusion, Belle's voice is a crucial element of what makes Beauty and the Beast so beloved. Whether it's the Broadway brilliance of Paige O'Hara or the natural charm of Emma Watson, each actress brings something unique and special to the role. Ultimately, it’s the blend of vocal talent and character portrayal that makes Belle's voice so enchanting and enduring. Her voice is a symbol of hope, intelligence, and compassion, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it’s the animated classic or the live-action adaptation, Belle’s voice continues to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the transformative power of love and the importance of seeing beyond appearances. And that's what makes Belle's voice truly beautiful, guys! So, next time you watch Beauty and the Beast, pay close attention to Belle's voice. It's more than just singing; it's the heart and soul of the story.