Is 'Beastly' Based On A Fairy Tale?

Absolutely! 'Beastly' takes inspiration from the classic fairy tale 'Beauty and the Beast,' but with a modern twist. The story follows Kyle Kingsbury, a spoiled teenager cursed to live as a beast until he finds true love. The core elements remain—transformation, redemption, and love breaking the curse—but the setting shifts to contemporary New York. The beast’s appearance is more grotesque than the original, with scars and tattoos instead of fur. The rose symbolism stays, though it’s tied to a countdown, adding urgency. It’s a fresh take that keeps the fairy tale’s heart while making it relatable to today’s audience.

Yes, 'Beastly' is a reimagining of 'Beauty and the Beast,' but it dives deeper into the psychological aspects of the curse. The novel (and later the film) explores Kyle’s transformation not just physically but emotionally. His arrogance isn’t just a flaw; it’s the root of his punishment. The modern setting allows for interesting parallels—social media popularity replaces royal status, and isolation in a penthouse mirrors the Beast’s castle.

The adaptation cleverly updates supporting characters too. The witch isn’t a mysterious enchantress but a fellow student disguised to test Kyle’s cruelty. Lindy, the 'Belle' figure, isn’t a bookworm trapped by circumstance but a girl dealing with her own family struggles. The rose’s ticking clock adds stakes the original didn’t have, making the romance feel more urgent. What I love is how the story retains the fairy tale’s magic while grounding it in real-world issues like vanity and redemption.

For those who enjoy this twist, I’d recommend 'Cruel Beauty' by Rosamund Hodge—another 'Beauty and the Beast' retelling, but with Greek mythology woven in. It’s darker and more intricate, perfect for readers who want a fresh layer of lore.

'Beastly' is definitely fairy tale-inspired, but it’s more than a straight adaptation. It borrows the skeleton of 'Beauty and the Beast'—the cursed prince, the transformative love—but fleshes it out with modern teenage drama. Kyle’s curse feels like poetic justice; his superficiality literally brands him. The story leans into the grittiness, showing how hard it is for someone who valued looks above all to adapt when they’re stripped of that advantage.

What stands out is how the narrative plays with perspective. Unlike the traditional tale, we see the Beast’s side first—his arrogance, his downfall, and his slow change. Lindy’s role is also nuanced. She’s not just a kind-hearted savior; she’s wary, realistic, and her trust is earned slowly. The setting in a high school adds layers of social commentary, making the fairy tale feel immediate and raw. If you liked this, check out 'A Curse So Dark and Lonely' by Brigid Kemmerer—another contemporary retelling with a disabled protagonist and a portal fantasy twist.