There is no doubt that Disney has produced many movies with brave, strong heroines. But there's something about Belle and her longing for adventure "in the great wide somewhere" that makes her stand out. She's easily the best Disney princess, and here's why.
1. She's a bookworm.
Belle is the only Disney heroine who embraces reading wholeheartedly; she's always walking around with her "nose stuck in a book." The whole town sings about how strange she is behind her back, but does she care? Nope! Fictional worlds are much more important than real life. And can we talk about that library at the Beast's castle?? Best. Library. Ever. If only it were real... *sigh*
2. She takes none of Gaston's crap.
Watching Belle interact with Gaston is one of my favorite things about Beauty and the Beast. She doesn't care how popular or handsome he is; his attempts to "woo" her do absolutely nothing. It's simply fabulous the way she shuts him down - particularly when she kicks him out of her house and he falls into the mud with the pig. I like to think of it as revenge for him dropping her book in the mud.
3. She looks past appearances.
This can be seen in not only her interactions with the Beast, but also with Gaston. All the girls in town can't resist swooning over Gaston, but Belle sees him for his ugly personality. And of course, she doesn't judge the Beast based on his looks. She takes the time to get to know him and realizes that there is a hurting, lonely soul under his tough exterior. In other Disney movies, you normally see the heroine falling in love with the tall, dark, and handsome prince. Belle shows that there's much more than appearances.
4. She sticks with her family no matter what.
Belle grew up with only her father as her family, and she stuck with him even though it meant not having any friends. She knows he's looked down on by everyone, and that people judge her as well for standing with him, but she doesn't care. She even sacrifices herself when she begs the Beast to exchange her life for her father's, not knowing what her future would be like. Her loyalty to family goes above and beyond.
5. She's going to be played by Emma Watson.
I could simply list this reason with no other explanation. Let's be real, is there anyone better to play Belle in the live-action movie than Emma Watson? Even back in her Hermione Granger days, she seriously channels Belle. She has proven to be an extremely talented actress, and I for one have no doubts that she will play Belle perfectly!
With her love for books, her family, and her intellect, Belle shines as the best princess. Her independence and cleverness make her a role model for all ages.
