Will It Become the Second Cruella? Disney Begins Production on Live-Action 'Beauty and the Beast' Gaston Film

◆ An Era Where Villains Become Protagonists

The Walt Disney Company continues the success formula of 〈Maleficent〉 and 〈Cruella〉. This time, the protagonist is the lovable villain from 〈Beauty and the Beast〉, 'Gaston'. American entertainment media Variety reports that Disney has launched a live-action film project featuring Gaston as the sole protagonist. Gaston, who first appeared in the 1991 animated 〈Beauty and the Beast〉, is a character who leaves a strong impression with his tall appearance but arrogant and selfish personality, opposing the Beast.

◆ A Completely New Story is Being Crafted

〈Beauty and the Beast〉 was already made into a live-action film in 2017, achieving great success. At that time, actor Luke Evans played the role of Gaston, receiving praise for his charming yet charismatic performance; however, he is not expected to join this solo movie. Like the case of 〈Cruella〉, Disney is expected to assemble a completely new cast and crew to present a different 'origin story' or a unique narrative from the existing one.

◆ Joining Forces with a Blockbuster Writer

The screenplay for this project will be written by Hollywood hitmaker David Callaham. He has proven his ability in action and solid storytelling by participating in the scripts for Marvel's 〈Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings〉 and the MonsterVerse series 〈Godzilla X Kong: New Empire〉. With a writer known for his strengths in action and scale joining the team, there are expectations that Gaston's story will evolve into a spectacular adventure beyond a simple romantic side story.