Beastly (2011)

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A modern-day take on the "Beauty and the Beast" tale where a New York teen is transformed into a hideous monster in order to find true love.

Film Overview
"Beastly" is a 2011 romantic dream drama directed by Daniel Barnz and based upon Alex Flinn's 2007 novel of the very same name. The story is a modern take on the "Beauty and the Beast" fairy tale. Alex Pettyfer, Vanessa Hudgens, Mary-Kate Olsen, and Neil Patrick Harris star in this movie.

Summaries
The film focuses on Kyle Kingson (Alex Pettyfer), a good-looking and rich young man who is extremely arrogant and mean-spirited. His vain and selfish nature results in a harsh online trick on a social castaway, Kendra Hilferty (Mary-Kate Olsen). Nevertheless, Kendra isn't a common lady however a witch who chooses to teach Kyle a lesson by casting a spell that transforms him into an unattractive and monstrous figure that mirrors his inner ugliness.

Menstruation can only be broken if he discovers somebody who loves him within a year, regardless of his repulsive look. If not, he will remain in this beastly form for eternity. Following menstruation, Kyle is turned down by his image-centric daddy who sends him to live independently with their house maid Zola (Lisa Gay Hamilton) and blind tutor, Will (Neil Patrick Harris).

The Transformation Journey
Paradoxically, the curse becomes a journey of self-discovery and improvement for Kyle. He learns to value inner charm and character over physical beauty. He starts to alter his character, developing into a kind-hearted individual. He soon encounters Lindy Taylor (Vanessa Hudgens), a modest and kind girl from his old high school. Despite initial shock, Lindy pertains to deal with Kyle for her security after a dangerous encounter with drug dealerships.

The Developing Romance
As time passes, Kyle begins to fall for Lindy. With support from Will and Zola, he expresses his feelings to Lindy, who begins to appreciate Kyle for who he is inside rather than his external appearance. Their romance is not without difficulties; Lindy's dad's disease has her leaving to look after him, and Kyle's self-doubt about his look starts to cloud their relationship.

Resolution
In spite of these hurdles, the story culminates on a romantic note. After discovering of her father's death, Kyle exposes his real identity to Lindy in an email. Lindy, who has grown to enjoy Kyle for his generosity, returns and admits her love, therefore breaking menstruation. Kyle turns back to his original good-looking self however has undoubtedly progressed as an individual, having actually found out the worth of inner beauty.

Conclusion
"Beastly" is a film about transformation and the power of love and kindness. It reinterprets the timeless story of "Beauty and the Beast", putting value on inner beauty over physical appearance. It demonstrates how love can foster change and aid get rid of shortcomings. The combination of romance, drama, fantasy and ethical message makes "Beastly" a distinct movie in its category.

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