The village is waking up, and so is the internet! Disney has finally gifted fans a substantial listen to Emma Watson’s vocals in a brand-new clip from the upcoming live-action ‘Beauty and the Beast’, and it is safe to say that the Hogwarts alum is officially a musical star.
While earlier television spots gave us only tiny snippets of her voice, this new footage showcases the film’s grand opening number, “Belle.” The breathtaking moment has sparked a massive wave of excitement across social media platforms like X and TikTok, with fans instantly sharing and analyzing the clip.
In the newly released footage, Watson’s Belle drifts through her “poor provincial town,” returning a borrowed book to a local shopkeeper while the villagers go about their busy morning routines.
Stepping Into a Legendary Role
Fans online are already comparing Watson’s sweet, clear tone to the legendary Paige O’Hara, who voiced the character in the beloved animated classic. Stepping into O’Hara’s shoes is no easy feat, especially since this marks Watson’s first major singing role on the big screen.
However, the new footage proves she can more than hold her own alongside the lush, theatrical arrangements of legendary composer Alan Menken. Director Bill Condon seems to be leaning into the pure magic of it all, choosing a highly stylized, beautifully choreographed production that feels like a love letter to the Broadway stage.
The reaction from fans has been overwhelmingly warm, with many expressing relief and joy over her natural performance. On TikTok, users are already pairing the new audio with side-by-side comparisons of the original animated sequence, marveling at how closely the live-action version honors the classic.
A Magical Paris Reunion
The timing of the clip release could not be more perfect. The film’s star-studded international press tour officially kicked off today in the city of lights-Paris!
Watson was joined by her Beast, Dan Stevens, as well as Luke Evans, who plays the arrogant Gaston, and Josh Gad, who portrays his sidekick LeFou, for a stunning photo op. The group was also joined by Menken, who has collaborated with lyricist Tim Rice to bring both the classic score and brand-new songs to this highly anticipated reimagining.
With the official soundtrack set to drop in just over two weeks, fans are already speculating about what is next. While we have had a tiny taste of Emma Thompson’s take on the titular track, the internet is currently holding its breath for one thing: Ewan McGregor’s performance of “Be Our Guest.”
If this beautiful “Bonjour” is any indication, audiences are in for a truly magical ride when the film finally hits theaters.
