'Beauty and the Beast' news: Emma Watson says she has had an 'unbelievable time' filming the live-action Disney classic

(Disney)Beauty and the Beast

A live-action adaptation of the Disney classic, "Beauty and the Beast," is currently in the thick of production and long-time fans who have grown up with the cartoon are already and unsurprisingly excited for the release of the project.

And their anticipation was only fuelled when it was announced earlier that Belle or the titular, Beauty, would be played by none other than the gorgeous, Emma Watson.

In true Disney fashion, not a lot about the film has been confirmed, however, according to some sources the "Beauty and the Beast" remake will stick to its roots and follow the original storyline.

In an interview with MTV News, the "Harry Potter" alumna gushed about how ecstatic she is to be playing a Disney princess. She revealed how much she enjoyed being involved in the project and also hinted that the movie would premiere by 2017.

"We have had an unbelievable time shooting Beauty and the Beast. It has been a complete dream come true. I can't wait for the film to release in 2017," Watson stated.

Aside from Watson, many great actors have been tapped to play the iconic characters in the Disney adaptation. Actor, Dan Stevens, from the series "Downton Abbey" will play the Beast while Kevin Kline will play Maurice, the father of Belle. Luke Evans would be playing the main villain of the movie, Gaston, while his bumbling sidekick, Lefou will be played by the hilarious, Josh Gad.

Playing the enchanted household objects are Ewan McGregor as Lumiere the delightful candelabra, Emma Thompson as Mrs. Potts and Sir Ian Mckellen as Cogsworth. Stanley Tucci has also been confirmed to participate in the film, playing a new character, Cadenza, a grand piano.

"Beauty and the Beast" will hit the big screen on March 17, 2017. Stay tuned for more updates.

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