Updated 05:40 PM EDT, Thu, Mar 28, 2024

'Beauty and the Beast' Movie Release Date & Cast: Emma Watson as Belle in Disney Live-Action

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Harry Potter actress Emma Watson is set to become a Disney princess. According to The Guardian, Watson herself confirmed that she will be playing the role of Belle in Disney's live action version of "Beauty and the Beast."

The 24-year-old actress wrote on her Facebook page, "I'm finally able to tell you ... that I will be playing Belle in Disney's new live-action Beauty and the Beast! It was such a big part of my growing up, it almost feels surreal that I'll get to dance to 'Be Our Guest' and sing 'Something There.' My six year old self is on the ceiling - heart bursting. Time to start some singing lessons. I can't wait for you to see it."

Watson is not the only one excited to be a Disney princess. Her fans, too, are excited for her, with Entertainment Tonight listing off seven reasons why she's perfect for the role: mostly because she already embodies Belle - they even hail from the same country! (Watson was born in France, where the tale of "Beauty and the Beast" takes place.)

The Hollywood Reporter also noted that the animated version, which was released in 1991, became a box office success, and became the first ever animated film to be nominated for best picture in the Oscars. Three of its songs were also nominated, with its title song eventually winning best original song.

Since the release of the animated film in 1991, Disney's animated film version has grossed over $145 million in the US, not including inflation rates. It also hit the Broadway stage in 1994 and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, eventually winning Best Costume Design.

With Watson's post, The Guardian suggests that the new film that is to be directed by Twilight: Breaking Dawn's Bill Condon, will stick to the original version, wherein songs will play a key role to the story.

Disney has been redeveloping some of its most beloved films lately. "Beauty and the Beast" is only among the latest live-action updates of its animated films that included "Alice in Wonderland" in 2010, and "Cinderella", which will be out in theaters on March this year. Jon Favreau will also be directing the live-action version of "The Jungle Book", which will be released in April 2016.

"Beauty and the Beast" on the other hand, will be produced by David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman of Mandeville films. Although set to start filming later this year, the studio is yet to announce a release date.

Are you excited to see Emma as a live-action Disney princess?

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