MM Exploration

Summary

The 2020 American TV show Beauty and the Beast is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale with a modern, supernatural twist. The show follows Catherine Chandler (played by Kristin Kreuk), a strong and intelligent detective in the NYPD who has a dark past. Years ago, she was saved from an attack by a mysterious figure who she later discovers is Dr. Vincent Keller (portrayed by Jay Ryan). Vincent, a former military doctor, was subjected to an experimental procedure during his time in the army, leaving him with extraordinary abilities and a beastly alter ego that he struggles to control.

The story revolves around Catherine and Vincent as they navigate their complicated relationship while solving crimes and uncovering deeper conspiracies. Vincent’s transformation into a “beast” puts him on the run from various government agencies, making him a wanted man. As the plot unfolds, the duo faces increasing danger from external forces while dealing with the emotional challenges that arise from their unique situation.

Other key characters include Tess Vargas (played by Nina Lisandrello), Catherine’s partner in the police force, who is both tough and loyal, and J.T. Forbes (portrayed by Austin Basis), Vincent’s best friend and confidant who helps him manage his condition. Together, the characters form a close-knit team as they try to protect Vincent and keep his identity a secret.

The show blends elements of romance, action, and mystery, creating a dynamic story with plenty of emotional depth and tension. Throughout its run, Beauty and the Beast explores the bond between Catherine and Vincent as they fight against the forces that threaten to tear them apart.

5 Most Memorable Scenes

Here are five memorable scenes from Beauty and the Beast (2020 version) that stand out for their emotional impact, tension, and development of key relationships:

1. Catherine and Vincent’s First Meeting: One of the most unforgettable moments is when Catherine finally realizes that Vincent was the mysterious figure who saved her years ago. This moment lays the foundation for the entire series, bringing a mix of shock, curiosity, and an instant connection between the two. The scene is loaded with tension as Vincent’s secret is revealed, showing his dual nature for the first time.
2. Vincent’s Transformation in Front of Catherine: A pivotal moment in the show occurs when Vincent loses control and transforms into the beast in front of Catherine. It’s an emotional and intense scene where Catherine witnesses the full extent of his condition. The rawness of his transformation combined with Catherine’s reaction solidifies their bond, as she chooses to accept him despite his monstrous side.
3. The Rooftop Kiss: One of the most romantic scenes between Catherine and Vincent takes place on a rooftop, where their deep connection culminates in a kiss. The setting, with the city skyline as a backdrop, and the emotional intensity of the moment make it one of the most iconic romantic scenes in the series. It symbolizes their commitment to one another, even though they’re aware of the dangers that their relationship brings.
4. Vincent’s Capture by Muirfield: A tense and heart-wrenching scene occurs when Vincent is captured by Muirfield, the shadowy organization responsible for his condition. The scene is filled with high stakes, as Catherine and their friends scramble to rescue him. It’s a pivotal moment in the show where Vincent’s vulnerability is on full display, highlighting the risks of his condition and the powerful forces working against him.
5. Catherine and Tess’s Confrontation: When Tess discovers the truth about Vincent, it leads to a dramatic confrontation between her and Catherine. Tess feels betrayed by her best friend, and the scene is charged with emotion as Catherine tries to explain her actions while protecting Vincent’s secret. It marks a turning point in their friendship and adds complexity to their dynamic, especially as Tess grapples with the moral implications of helping Catherine hide Vincent’s identity.

These scenes stand out for their emotional weight and the way they drive the characters’ relationships forward, all while maintaining the suspense and tension that define Beauty and the Beast.

Themes

Beauty and the Beast explores several recurring themes that drive the narrative and add depth to the characters and their relationships. Here are some of the key themes:

1. Identity and Self-Acceptance: One of the core themes in the show is Vincent’s struggle with his dual identity as both man and beast. He grapples with accepting who he has become after the experimental procedure that gave him his abilities. His journey toward self-acceptance is central to the storyline, as he battles his inner demons while trying to hold on to his humanity. Catherine also faces her own identity crisis, balancing her life as a detective and her relationship with Vincent, which often forces her to break the rules.
2. Love and Sacrifice: The relationship between Catherine and Vincent highlights the theme of love and sacrifice. Their love is tested repeatedly, and both characters make significant sacrifices to protect each other. Vincent’s willingness to isolate himself to keep Catherine safe, and Catherine’s determination to shield him from the authorities, show how their love transcends the dangers they face. The theme also explores how love can survive in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
3. The Nature of Humanity: The show raises questions about what it means to be human. Vincent’s transformation into a beast brings out the tension between his animalistic instincts and his innate humanity. The series examines the darker aspects of human nature, such as fear, aggression, and violence, while also exploring the capacity for empathy, compassion, and love. This theme is mirrored in other characters as well, who face moral dilemmas about how far they are willing to go to protect those they love.
4. Secrecy and Trust: Secrecy plays a significant role throughout the series, as Vincent must keep his identity hidden to avoid capture by government agencies and Muirfield. This secrecy creates tension in his relationship with Catherine, as she must lie to her colleagues, friends, and family to protect him. Trust becomes a central issue as Catherine navigates these dual lives, and the show examines how secrecy can strain even the strongest bonds, testing the limits of loyalty and trust between the characters.
5. Power and Control: Another recurring theme is the concept of power and control, both in terms of the physical power Vincent possesses and the external control exerted by organizations like Muirfield. Vincent struggles to control his abilities and the beast within, often fearing that he might lose control and hurt those he loves. On a larger scale, the show critiques how governments and secret organizations exert control over individuals for their own gain, as seen in Muirfield’s experiments on Vincent and others like him. This theme resonates throughout the show, reflecting a broader concern about personal autonomy and institutional power.

These themes give Beauty and the Beast a rich narrative framework, blending romance, action, and moral questions into a compelling story.

Personal Review

As a long-time lover of Disney films, Beauty and the Beast has always held a special place in my heart, right next to Aladdin, which is my all-time favorite. So, when I discovered a modern-day version of Beauty and the Beast as a TV show, I was excited to see how it would compare to the original Disney movie I adore. I was not disappointed. The 2020 version of Beauty and the Beast captured the essence of the classic tale while offering a thrilling, updated spin with elements of action, romance, and mystery. It was fascinating to watch this modern interpretation, and I loved how the creators wove the themes of the original story into a contemporary setting.

I’m also familiar with the older version of the show from the late 1980s, but I much prefer this more recent adaptation. While the first version had its moments, I didn’t find it as engaging or as well-developed as this 2020 reboot. The chemistry between Kristin Kreuk (as Catherine) and Jay Ryan (as Vincent) is undeniable, and their portrayal of a complicated yet powerful romance kept me hooked from start to finish. The storyline in this version is much more intense, blending the right amount of action, suspense, and emotion, which I felt the earlier version lacked.

What I loved most about this show is how perfectly it balances romance with action. For those who love a good love story that’s grounded in real challenges and sacrifice, Beauty and the Beast delivers. But what makes it even better is the action-packed sequences that had me on the edge of my seat. Each episode builds suspense, making it nearly impossible to stop watching. There’s always something to anticipate, whether it’s a dramatic confrontation, a heart-stopping chase, or an emotional turning point for the characters.

I highly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys a mix of romance, action, and a bit of supernatural intrigue. The fast-paced plot and complex character dynamics make it more than just a simple rehash of the classic story—it feels fresh, exciting, and gripping. It truly brought one of my favorite fairy tales into the modern era in a way that felt original and exhilarating. Whether you’re a fan of the original Disney movie or just looking for a compelling series, Beauty and the Beast is a must-watch!

Give it a view and let me know what you think!

Here’s the song of the week!

Next week I’ll be visiting India to watch a two part movie series and then heading back to China, here are summaries of what to expect:

India: Set in an ancient kingdom, this epic tale follows the journey of a young man with extraordinary strength and courage as he embarks on a quest to discover his true identity. Along the way, he becomes entangled in a power struggle within a royal family, facing betrayal, love, and loyalty. The film is a grand visual spectacle filled with breathtaking battle scenes, awe-inspiring landscapes, and intense emotional drama. It masterfully weaves together themes of duty, sacrifice, and justice, making it a captivating story of heroism and destiny.

China: A young and talented chef working at a hotel kitchen crosses paths with a successful, no-nonsense businessman who unexpectedly enters her life. Their initial encounters are marked by misunderstandings, but over time, their connection deepens as they navigate the ups and downs of life, career, and love. This lighthearted and heartwarming series blends romance and comedy, with food playing a central role in bringing the characters together. It’s a delightful story about finding love in the most unexpected of places, filled with charm, humor, and delicious moments.

Please Like and Subscribe!

Check out my social media sites!

Facebook: MM Exploration

Instagram: meganmay235

X (Twitter): MeganMay235