life as best as i remember it…

I watched Beauty and the Beast two times today.

I know it sounds like I’m a horrible parent. But alas, it is the truth:
Dad likes pop-culture; kids like pop culture.

This morning’s viewing was the first time that Ellison had ever seen this film. I had the best time watching Ellison absorb this whole film, making comments, and faining gestures.

1. She LOVED the opening. The “Bon Jour” song with grand chorals and great solos was almost too much happy for her. Elli’s smile was infectious.

2. In the scene when the Beast attempts a last-ditch effort woo Belle, they dance together. Elli asked me, “Why are they dancing together, the Beast is not her prince?”

3. During the final scene of the movie as the Beast transforms back into the prince, she went bonkers! Her hands were clutched to her face. She was smiling. “He’s turning into the prince. Belle has found her prince. I LOVE this movie!”

My inner theater nerd wanted to tell my three year old little girl that this movie is about finding love in unexpected or even ugly places when all odds are against you. I wanted to tell her that Belle is no mere beauty but an intelligent woman who is well read, adventurous, and strong willing to sacrifice for the sake of those she loves most, that her love for the beast transcended cultural boundaries almost in rebellion to the standards of her day. I wanted to explain to her that this is GOOD storytelling with great characterization and a plot line with perfect tension and comic relief.

But I didn’t. I enjoyed her smile as she watched the brilliant choreography of dancing flatware. I watched her clench her blanket and felt her nestle in during the scarier moments. I allowed her to bask in the fairytale ending that so rarely gets enjoyed these days.

I used to think that these princess movies were fluffy. I didn’t want my girls growing up thinking that everything is perfect at the end of it all in happily-ever-after land. But as I watched this movie again, I noticed a really decent an example of a strong woman. I think that I might have had a change of heart on this whole princess thing. Sure in happily-ever-after land, Belle and her prince will have fights, maybe shed a few tears, even spend some nights on the couch… but they fought for their lives to get to happily-ever-after, and that says something about their love and commitment to weather any storm – perhaps what happily-ever-after (or marriage) is all about.

So I watched Beauty and the Beast two times today. You may call me a sentimental sap, but I think I learned a bit more about love, parenting, and my little girl.