Belle A Retelling Of Beauty And The Beast
The classic fairytale of Beauty and the Beast has been retold and reimagined numerous times over the years. However, one of the most popular and recent adaptations of this timeless story is the movie, Belle. Directed by Amma Asante, Belle is a breathtakingly beautiful retelling of this classic tale that is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
The Plot
Belle is based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed-race woman who lived in the 18th century. The movie tells the story of Dido, who is the daughter of a Royal Navy captain and an enslaved African woman. Dido is sent to live with her aristocratic great-uncle and aunt at Kenwood House in Hampstead, England.
As Dido grows up, she faces many challenges, including racism, sexism, and classism. However, she also finds love with John Davinier, a young lawyer who is fighting for the abolition of slavery in England. Together, Dido and John navigate the complex social and political landscape of their time, while also falling deeply in love with each other.
The Cast
One of the most impressive aspects of Belle is its incredible cast. Gugu Mbatha-Raw gives a stunning performance as Dido Elizabeth Belle, bringing both strength and vulnerability to her character. Tom Wilkinson is also excellent as Dido's great-uncle, Lord Mansfield, who is torn between his love for Dido and his duty to uphold the law.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Sarah Gadon as Dido's cousin, Elizabeth, and Miranda Richardson as Lady Ashford. Sam Reid also shines as John Davinier, who is passionate about his beliefs and his love for Dido.
The Themes
At its core, Belle is a story about love, equality, and justice. Throughout the movie, we see Dido and John struggle against the injustices of their time, while also navigating the complexities of their own relationship.
The movie also explores themes of race, class, and gender, and how these factors intersect to shape our experiences and relationships. Dido's mixed-race identity, for example, puts her in a unique position of privilege and disadvantage, as she is both a member of the aristocracy and an outsider in that world.
The Reception
Belle was released in 2013 and received widespread critical acclaim. The movie was praised for its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes.
Many critics also noted the historical significance of the movie, as it tells the story of a woman of color who played a pivotal role in the fight against slavery in England. Belle was also praised for its feminist themes, as it portrays Dido as a strong, intelligent, and independent woman who is not defined by her relationships with men.
Conclusion
Belle is a must-see movie for anyone who loves a good romance, a great historical drama, or a powerful story about social justice. With its incredible cast, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes, Belle is a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll.