Belle

...that Peter Saunders must have been watching a different movie. I don't agree with him at all. I enjoyed this movie to the fullest. Though the ending was a bit predictable, the acting, sets (incredible), and story were wonderful. The costume designer should win an award...As well as the set designer. Don't let his review keep you from seeing this film. Watch it, enjoy it, and see for yourself if you like it. Seven bucks well spent. If you like period pieces, go see it. The sets alone are worth the trip. And the lead actress was both beautiful and played her role very well. Maybe there weren't enough explosions or CGI to make Peter happy...

Initially I was excited to see this movie because of Matthew Goode, even though I realized that he only plays a minor role in this film. After seeing the trailer however, the film flew towards the top of my "to watch" list. It still managed to exceed my expectations - interesting, well paced storyline, incredible cast (Tom Wilkinson was absolutely brilliant), intricate and beautiful costumes - definitely a movie that will be enjoyed even by those who are not big fans of period pieces.

The fact that the movie was based on a true story just made it even more impactful. Dido Elizabeth Belle is left in England by her loving Admiral father, to be raised by her aristocratic aunt and uncle - at a time in history when wealth and social standing could not overshadow the fact that she was a mixed race, illegitimate child. Belle's story of trying to figure out her place in the world and in her family unravels beautifully alongside a closer and deeper look at the racism and sexism plaguing the British society at the time. Add a dash of romance and the result is a beautiful film definitely worth watching.

This movie is most likely not playing at a theater near you, but it is so worth traveling to see. The acting was superb! I don't remember a movie in recent times that I enjoyed so much. The story touched my heart as a person of mixed African descent. It showed how then and now too much emphasis is placed on skin color. It showcased people (both white and black) that were willing to stand up for what is right. I don't find this kind of movie to be controversial as it will do so much to enlighten people to historical facts that cannot be denied.

The costumes were so beautiful and some were on display at the Landmark Theater in Los Angeles. The audience clapped and cheered at the end of the movie and were raving about the movie as they left the theater.

I just saw an advance screening of BELLE--and I absolutely loved it. The dialog, directing, performances, costumes, locations, and cinematography were all fabulous.

It's based on the mesmerizing and romantic true story of the beautiful, intelligent, mixed race daughter of an admiral, who was raised in Georgian England by her aristocratic great-uncle and his wife. The script hits all the right notes as Belle struggles to find her place in a society that doesn't quite accept her, and with the help of an idealistic young vicar's son (Sam Reid-- fantastic), influences an important anti-slavery case.

Congratulations to director Amma Asante and writer Misan Sagay for bringing this story vividly to life on the screen. Gugu Mbatha-Raw was luminous as Dido Belle, and I think Tom Wilkinson gave the best role of his career. Both are Oscar-worthy performances. The film is highly recommended.