Thursday, February 19, 2015

Belle (2013)

Caution: This Might Contain Spoilers!
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This film is based off the 1779 painting with Dido Elizabeth Belle and her cousin Lady Elizabeth Murray. It is also based on evidence that she was raised at Kenwood House. In the eighteenth century England, Dido was unexpectedly born of a mixed heritage. She was later taken by her Royal Navy Admiral father to be raised by her aristocratic great uncle William Murray (1st Earl of Mansfield). Dido struggles against the stereotypes of a slave driven economy.

This film was directed by Amma Asante. Since there isn't there much known information about Belle, this film can be seen for its historical accuracy. There are several moments when the history was altered to better fit the film's genre. This film has an obvious message against slavery and for empowering women. It also has all the struggles that people fighting for stature and wealth. However, the ending pulls the story together in a cheerful matter; which is unlike most films presented within this era of history. It is great to watch the central character mature and stand for something. The backdrops are beautiful, and the costume design is a delight to watch. Gugu (Gugulethu) Mbatha-Raw played the role of Dido Elizabeth Belle. Her performance was stunning on screen. She subtly created a strong female character with all the posh one would expect form a woman in the era. Sam Reid played the role of John Davinier. He was great supporting Gugu on screen. Tom Wilkinson played the role of Lord Mansfield. He was another great supporting actor for the film.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars! It is a great period piece film that certain audiences will enjoy. 

This film can be found through DVD.

Answer to last blog: Actor Cole Konis played the role of young Chris Kyle in American Sniper.

Que: What other film has director Amma Asante directed?

Beyond the Lights
Tigers
Felony
A Way of Life

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