From her fellow townspeople's point of view, however, there is one little problem: She's just not like them. She reads books. And she dreams of adventure and true love. What a peculiar young thing.
Of course, that doesn't stop the lantern-jawed Gaston from wanting her as his wife. She's the prettiest girl in town, after all, which makes her the best. And doesn't he deserve the best?! He's certain he'll cure her of all that silly reading and dreaming once they tie the knot.
Belle isn't interested. She'd rather wait for the future while taking care of her forgetful but loving papa. He's such a dear old fellow, and an inventor, too. Someday his wonderfully quirky inventions will make him famous, she's sure of it.
So when Papa gets lost on his way to the city, and his horse returns without him, Belle is instantly concerned. And she rides out to search for him, his faithful horse taking her to the gates of a gloomy old castle. Inside, she finds her father, locked away in a dungeon cell.
"Go away, Belle!" he cries. "Save yourself." But it's too late. The surly owner of this enchanted castle has heard the commotion and storms into the shadow-cloaked room. With bared teeth and an angry roar, he makes the facts clear: Papa trespassed and a price must be paid. If Belle wants to take his place, so be it. But someone will be the lifelong prisoner of … the Beast!