BEASTLY (USA 2010) ***
Directed by Daniel Barnz

BEASTLY is a romantic fantasy which is an updated modern version of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST set in modern day New York City.  The film, based on the Alex Flynn 2007 novel of the same name is not as bad as it sounds.

As far as romantic comedies go, this is several notches better than the recent NO STRINGS ATTACHED and JUST GO WITH IT.  The acting is natural, the story still has universal appeal and the charm is still present.  The film is also quite hilarious with the humour not compromising the seriousness of the message.  Kyle’s beginning speech asking fellow students to vote for him as Environmental President is down-right funny.

The plot focuses on Kyle Kingson (Alex Pettyfer), a handsome man with an evil streak, who disrespects a classmate, who is a witch in disguise, during an environmental event. The witch then casts a spell on Kyle and physically transforms him into a grotesque monster.  He has one year to have someone say “I love you” or he will forever remain the beast.  In reality, Kyle is so good looking that even as a beast, he has sex appeal with his toned body.  He falls and woos Linda Owens (Vanessa Hedgens) and it does not take a genius to guess that she will break the spell.

The subplots involving a fallout with his father (Neil Patrick Harris) and the maid’s (Lisa Gay Hamilton) green card are pleasant enough distractions though not that original material.

Running at just 90 minutes, BEATLY is light romantic entertainment that delivers what is expected!