Based on a true story, "Belle" follows the life of Dido Elizabeth Belle Lindsay (1761 - 1804). Referred to by her family as Dido, she was born to an African slave in the West Indies . Her biological father was John Lindsay, an upper-class British naval officer who takes Dido after her mother's death to live with his uncle (William Murray, aka Lord Mansfield) and his wife who are already raising another great-niece close to Dido's age. Lord Mansfield is also a judge in an upcoming trial that might change the course of slavery in England.
Like many other stories of this era, there is a palpable intensity in how people relate to each other regarding class, rank, politics, and inheritance rights. This shows especially in attempts at matchmaking for marriage prospects. It seemed that men, as well as women, struggled to "marry up".
What makes "Belle" so fascinating is how race is thrown in the most unusual way into this familiar equation. One might have expected Dido's race and birth circumstances to have her ranked at the lowest end of society. It certainly causes her a share of harm and injustice yet her father's bloodline and inherited wealth leave her advantaged in other ways despite how cranky this might make others feel. This twist makes the film very unique compared to many other stories dealing with class and race prejudice.
The film's ending is its weakest part. After a bit of research, it is apparent that a few liberties were taken on historical accuracy. More importantly, director Amma Asante chooses a very sentimental and syrupy approach to manipulate the audience. This approach is contrary to the much better one that Asante used through most of the film. Yet, overall, this is a fine film with a story that deserves to be told.
Like many other stories of this era, there is a palpable intensity in how people relate to each other regarding class, rank, politics, and inheritance rights. This shows especially in attempts at matchmaking for marriage prospects. It seemed that men, as well as women, struggled to "marry up".
What makes "Belle" so fascinating is how race is thrown in the most unusual way into this familiar equation. One might have expected Dido's race and birth circumstances to have her ranked at the lowest end of society. It certainly causes her a share of harm and injustice yet her father's bloodline and inherited wealth leave her advantaged in other ways despite how cranky this might make others feel. This twist makes the film very unique compared to many other stories dealing with class and race prejudice.
The film's ending is its weakest part. After a bit of research, it is apparent that a few liberties were taken on historical accuracy. More importantly, director Amma Asante chooses a very sentimental and syrupy approach to manipulate the audience. This approach is contrary to the much better one that Asante used through most of the film. Yet, overall, this is a fine film with a story that deserves to be told.