Staying true to the classic lyrics, the re-imagining of “Beauty and the Beast” has something that wasn’t there before. The film is destined for box office glory, giving audiences what they have anxiously waited for since the film’s announcement in 2015 but packs a creative and exhilarating punch.

Bill Condon directs this live-action retelling of the 1991 animated classic, staying true to the traditional aspects of the film while adding his own twists. The nature of live-action makes everything more real, intense and powerful, and that’s exactly what Condon achieved.

The film’s story is truly a “tale as old as time,” but Condon brought new life with a star-studded cast and a devilish eye for detail.

Emma Watson gave Belle a strong, independent voice that will surely inspire girls for generations to come. Watson’s not a singer, clearly shown through excessive autotune, but don’t mind that. It’s when she speaks that she delivers strength, personality and fierce ambition.

Luke Evans plays Gaston, the self-indulgent meathead determined to win Belle’s heart. Evans isn’t insanely large or muscular like the Gaston portrayed in the animated version, but he creates a huge onscreen presence through his strong voice and impeccable characterization.

Galumphing alongside him is LeFou, played by Josh Gad, Gaston’s short and irritating sidekick. Gad played the role perfectly, nailing his comedic breaks while adding new depth to the character. Disney took a risk in exposing another side of LeFou, but it felt a little forced and unnecessary. The sexual confusion may have been a refreshing sight for LGBT activists, but felt inauthentic at times.

The CGI was impressive but extensive. The musical numbers were visually stunning, yet not easy on the eyes, with certain scenes such as “Be Our Guest” provoking feelings of dizziness and nausea. Composer Alan Menken, who scored the original film, returned to compose original music and remake old classics alongside Tim Rice. The musical score was beautiful — a Disney movie can’t go wrong with Menken.

Condon brings each character new life through elaborate backstories and intimate moments and these small moments add years to the characters, liberating audiences from their old perspectives while preserving the magic of true love.