Beauty and the Beast Will Introduce Fans to a New Side of Beast

Earlier today, we got a two minute (and unbelievably gorgeous) look at Belle, Beast, Gaston, the enchanted objects, and more in the new trailer for the live-action Beauty and the Beast. While we were mesmerized by how cool Beast in particular looked on screen, we were equally impressed by what Dan Stevens had to say about his character during a Facebook live stream he participated in with the cast and director this morning. According to the actor, the film will be introducing fans to a whole new side of Beast. Stevens and the cast discussed the changes at the 14:18 minute mark in the video below.

“We see a little bit of his backstory,” explained Stevens. “We learn a little bit more about this vain, spoiled, rich kid, son of a billionaire who treats women like objects and lives in a ridiculous luxury tower.”

But Beast’s backstory isn’t the only thing we will be learning more about. According to director Bill Condon, the film also touches on his ability to read, which is something he couldn’t do in the original film. “With our film, it’s like he’s forgotten that he has this wonderful library. Belle reminds him of the wonderful things around him,” explained Stevens.

According to Condon, Stevens helped shape Beast into a “sophisticated man who has a sense of humor.” It seems this time around, the character will be telling “very smart jokes all the time,” which is something we are really curious to see. “The Beast that is in our version is incredibly witty and has this dry English sense of humor,” added Emma Watson (Belle).

Well, we didn’t think it was possible, but now we’re even more excited for Beauty and the Beast’s March 17 release than we were this morning. This calls for another viewing of the new trailer.