Book excerpt: The Beauty and the Beast legend has a universal appeal; the tale exists in numerous versions throughout the world. After all of its ups and downs, Disney's Beauty and the Beast was released in 1991 to rave reviews and record-breaking business. The film was widely hailed as a technical and aesthetic breakthrough. It was the first of only three animated features ever to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture. Its success has since spun into a smash Broadway musical adaptation, intricately detailed environments at Walt Disney World, and soon a live-action movie musical directed by Bill Condon. This authoritative book features interviews with artists, producers, directors, writers, actors, and more from the various beloved installments-making it a treasure trove of delights for fans of the tale as old as time.