Review of Belle (2013) by Eric A — 06 Jun 2014

In an elegant setting in aristocratic England, a gentleman brings home his illegitimate mixed race daughter. It is beyond any approach that would have been done in a mundane PBS episode. It was filled with passionate performances from an ensemble that approached a subject that not only encompassed the inequalities among race, but also addressed the very same inequalities in class and and sex.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw lit the screen with radiance and was thoroughly eloquent in her delivery. She was ably supported by a tough, hard performance by Tom Wilkinson as her Great Uncle who must also decide in a case against the killing of slaves that were meant for market.

Emily Watson, Sam Reid, & Penelope Wilton were all exemplary. The sets, costumes, and the cinematography were wonderful. This film was flawless & it held my attention throughout. It is a film that deserves repeat viewings; its message must be remembered.

As human beings we all have equal value.