So six months ago I got really excited because they were turning Beastly by Alex Flinn into a movie. I knew the book was based on the tale of Beauty and the Beast, set in modern day New York City. I immediately grabbed the book, and although it wasn't all that great, I enjoyed it for what it was. Then they delayed the movie, then they delayed it again. Finally, the movie that was supposed to come out in August 2010, came to theaters in March 2011. And I have to say, don't waste your time.
I went to a small theater on a Thursday night that had an interesting audience comprised of: two separate couples in their 30's that looked like they were on dates, myself and a friend, 4 high school girls and one creepy guy in the corner. But we all had a good time laughing at the many ridiculous lines and scenes, and I am glad that no one was taking it too seriously. The plot was reasonably true to the book with just a few minor changes (for instance the "Beast" is a hairy monster in the book, but he is more disfigured in the movie, I assumed this was because gluing hair to Alex Pettyfer every day was going to take too much effort).
The worst part of it was really the screen writing (note: I would say the acting was horrible but I am reasonably sure that it was because of the writing that the actors came across as 2-dimensional saps). There were some particularly bad lines which no great actor could save (although Neal Patrick Harris did a fantastic job with his character Will, but then he can do no wrong in my eyes). Overall, I would say if you love a good predictable romance, read the book then wait for it to come out on DVD and check it out from the Library.
Although I wouldn't ask for the 90 minutes of my life back that I spent watching it, I would like to ask for a refund on my ticket. Go ahead and see it for yourself, I just don't suggest spending your money on it. P.S. I think it would make a great film to roast someday. Which is too bad really because I was really looking forward to it.