Ah, Belle, the anime that took the world by storm in 2021. It wasn’t just a movie, it was a tidal wave of feels, stunning visuals, and a soundtrack that could melt glaciers (not the singing, those were fire). So buckle up, fellow anime enthusiast, because we’re diving deep into the “U” of why Belle was (and still is) so darn popular.
1. The “Beauty and the Beast” on steroids storyline: Let’s face it, we all love a good retelling of the classic fairy tale, and Belle takes it to a whole new level. Instead of a beast in a castle, we get a “Dragon,” a mysterious entity terrorizing the virtual world of U. Suzu, our shy protagonist, finds solace and a second identity as Belle, a captivating singer who captures the hearts of millions online. The tension between the real and virtual worlds, the fear surrounding the Dragon, and Suzu’s journey of self-discovery kept us glued to the screen like we were glued with the tears we were shedding after every emotional gut punch.
2. Visuals that would make Studio Ghibli jealous: Seriously, the animation in Belle is breathtaking. From the sprawling landscapes of U, with its floating islands and shimmering waterfalls, to the intricate details of Suzu’s facial expressions, it’s a feast for the eyes. And don’t get me started on the Dragon. Sure, it might look like a giant, sparkly pineapple on stilts at first glance, but wait until it unleashes its inner light show. You’ll be saying “whoa” faster than you can say “kawaii.”
3. A soundtrack that could launch a thousand anime AMVs: Ryuchi Yano, the composer, deserves a gold medal (and maybe a lifetime supply of ramen) for this one. Every song perfectly captures the mood of the scene, from the heart-wrenching piano melodies during Suzu’s emotional moments to the upbeat pop anthems when Belle takes the stage. And don’t even get me started on “U,” the main theme. Prepare to have it stuck in your head for weeks (but trust me, you won’t mind).
4. Characters that felt like real people (except for the talking lion… maybe): From Suzu’s shyness and vulnerability to the Dragon’s surprising gentleness and wisdom, each character felt fleshed-out and relatable. Even the side characters, like the choir ladies who always seemed to appear at the most inopportune moments (seriously, ladies, personal space!), added a touch of humor and warmth to the story. And let’s not forget Shinobu, the childhood friend/love interest/walking plot device. He might have been as subtle as a brick to the face, but his unwavering support for Suzu made us root for their relationship even if it did feel a bit forced at times.
5. A message that resonated with us all: At its core, Belle is about facing your fears, finding your voice, and the importance of human connection, even in the virtual world. In a time when isolation and anxiety were at an all-time high, the film’s message offered hope and a reminder that we’re not alone. Who hasn’t felt like a shy Suzu struggling to find their place in the world? And who hasn’t dreamt of being a captivating Belle, inspiring others with our talents?
So there you have it, a glimpse into the reasons why Belle captured our hearts and imaginations. It was a beautiful, emotional, and thought-provoking film that reminded us of the power of music, stories, and the connections we forge with each other, even through a screen. Just be warned, though, watching Belle is a one-way ticket to the feels train. Pack your tissues (and maybe some snacks, because those emotional rollercoasters can be hungry work) and get ready for a journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
P.S. Remember the tiny bit of humor I promised? Okay, here it is: While the movie deals with some heavy themes, there are also some laugh-out-loud moments. Like the scene where Suzu’s younger brother, a master of deadpan delivery, describes the Dragon as “basically a giant pineapple with legs.” Or the choir ladies’ unwavering dedication to their… unique vocal stylings. Trust me, amidst the tears, there will be giggles. Now go forth and enjoy Belle, fellow anime enthusiast! Just don’t blame me if you start practicing your singing in the shower with hopes of becoming the next virtual pop sensation. You’ve been warned.
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