Watch CBS News

Vanessa Hudgens, A Modern-day Belle in 'Beastly'

NEW YORK (CBS) - Vanessa Hudgens skyrocketed to fame in the "High School Musical" series, and now she's going back to high school in a very different kind of movie. "Beastly" is based on the classic tale of "Beauty and the Beast.' Only this time, there's a modern twist.

Hudgens has been part of the Disney family for years, but never thought she would actually have the opportunity to star as Belle.

"I had no idea. It's awesome, you know -- I think every girl's dream to kind of fall in love and have that magical kiss and he turns into a prince," she tells "Early Show" co-anchor Chris Wragge.

Vanessa Hudgens on CBS' Early Show
"Beastly" beauty, Vanessa Hudgens on CBS' Early Show (Photo Credit: CBS/Early Show)

VIDEO: Beauty Vanessa Hudgens Interview on CBS' Early Show

Born in Salinas, California to Gina and Gregory Hudgens, Vanessa clearly is an exotic beauty with many "princes" vying for her attention.  She recognizes that beauty is only skin-deep and that it takes a team to make celebrities look they way they do. In her latest film, "Beastly," which hits theaters Friday, it's about learning how to see past false surfaces to discover true inner-beauty.

But Hudgens embraces her outer beauty, as well. Vanessa appears in the March issue of Details magazine, which features an article accompanied by a risque photo spread.

So is she straying away from her wholesome audience? Although she loves her current fan base, Hudgens says she's ready to show the world she's an adult, and is looking to appeal to an older crowd.

'Beastly' Movie Preview

What do you think? Is she ready to leave high school behind and head for college? Share your view below...

(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.