Obviously the Disney suits gave more than two figs about the legacy from the first Beast film, as they reassembled the former cast and spent some cash on production and tune-smithing for this straight-to-video effort. The ... more »events unfold between the time in the first film where Belle bartered herself to the Beast and her later return to the village to save her father. So the Beast's heart still hasn't been melted yet, and he's susceptible to the inky persuasions of Forte (Tim Curry), a malevolent pipe organ (and former music teacher to the prince). Belle is still trying to win over the Beast and decides that bringing Christmas to the castle will be the way to do it. Please control that gag reflex for this does work remarkably well, and though entirely unnecessary and certainly not a complement to the original, it doesn't tarnish its good name. --Keith Simanton« less
"Like the other reviewer, I've seen this lovely little movie dozens of times, and never get tired of it. Angela Lansbury and Paige O'Hara are just as charming as in the original, and Bernadette Peters' Angelique will melt your heart. Her song, "As Long As There's Christmas," just might put a catch in your throat. The animation - especially the evil Forte - is eye-popping, just as you would expect from Disney. I would recommend this movie for all Disney-cartoon fans, as well as those who want a collection of cheery, heart-warming Christmas videos/DVDs. Get it ... You won't be disappointed. (FYI: Disney released a CD soundtrack that is just as much fun as the movie!)"
A beautiful sequel to the classic Disney epic
Byron Kolln | the corner where Broadway meets Hollywood | 03/12/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"THE ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS is a wonderful continuation of Disney's acclaimed Oscar-winning BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, which tells the untold chapter of the fateful Christmas where Belle stole the heart of the gruff Beast.The best thing is the presence of the entire original voice cast; Paige O'Hara as Belle, Robby Benson as The Beast, Jerry Orbach as Lumiere, David Odgen Stiers as Cogsworth and Angela Lansbury as Mrs Potts. Joining them as brand-new characters are Bernadette Peters as Angelique, Paul Reubens as Fife and Tim Curry as the evil Forte. There is also Haley Joel Osment in the role of tiny Chip.The story is heart-warming, and as someone who has grown up with the original movie (and it has to be my favorite Disney film), it was like seeing dear old friends again.Do not miss it! The DVD transfer is gorgeous."
Dark for a Holiday movie
Byron Kolln | 11/17/2002
(2 out of 5 stars)
"We bought this DVD in hopes to add to our collection for holiday movies. My daughter barely made it through the first 1/2 hr. She seemed intersted in the beginning but as the movie went on it got very dark and for her a little scary. The beast was angry through most it. The reason for 2 stars, the beginning was fine as was the end. The majority of the movie was disappointing. Was not my idea of a good classical holiday movie. It still contained a good message, but it took too long to get to that message."
A Classic Christmas Saga!
Ahmed | Canada | 09/12/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's a little something for all Beauty and the Beast fans. It's sweet and enjoyable. The songs are nothing compared to the original animated feature but still it's worth a check. It revives Disney's magical tale that earned an Oscar nominee for best picture! Note: Unlike the Oscar-winning feature, this is something that will probably appeal more to kids- so based on a children's perspective (younger cousins) I give it a 5- but unlike the original feature that I gave a 5-star to, I give this a 2-3 star from an adult's perspective.
The tale revolves around the lovable cast celebrating Christmas a year after what you saw in the original tale. They all start to have an argument over who saved Christmas the year before. They then go back to the original tale but in more detail this time. There are more new characters and a whole new villain. The 'musical' villain serves as a friend to the Beast. He's quite jealous and his music helps the Beast relax. Watch how the characters plan, sing, destroy, and save Christmas!
The story is of coarse nothing compared to Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Still with the characters returning to their objects and Belle singing around about 'stories', this feature is definitely worth seeing if you enjoyed the original!"
This movie is cool!
~*Tasha*~ | USA | 08/27/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I got this movie for a birthday present when I was 7 (my birthday is right after Christmas). I totally loved it, and I still do, 5 years later, lol! It's a really cute movie and I think lots of kids would like it."