What's it about?
Set in 18th century England and based on a true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, it explores how a mixed raced illegitimate daughter of a Royal Navy Captain grew up alongside her half-cousin Elizabeth but until adulthood didn't find her place in society - due to racism and prejudice of the British aristocrats.
Why watch it?
Because it's a beautiful film and for once the main heroine addresses not only the problems of feminism and social injustice, but that of racism in 18th century England and among aristocrats.
Stars
Ratings
7,4 on IMDb
83% on Rotten Tomatoes
Critics Reception
"Cinema can never correct the past, but it can reshape our perceptions of it, and Belle prompts us to wonder, as did 12 Years a Slave, why these stories have, thus far, been so rarely told".
Robbie Collin for The Telegraph
Belle is one of the rare films that inspired countless positive reviews - and for a good reason, of course. Even if it didn't mix the 'familiar Jane Austen' setting with the heavy problem of racism among the British aristocrats in 18th century, Belle would still be a great and clever movie. As it is, it has been barely criticised at all.
Reviews
Belle review – a ripe costume drama with teeth, The Guardian
Belle Review, Roger Ebert
Belle, review: 'a vital film', The Telegraph
Toronto Film Review: ‘Belle’, Variety
Belle Review, Empire