Check out the trailer to “Belle” which joins Black actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Undercovers) and Black British film director Amma Asante to tell a tale of race and politics during slavery in England.
“Belle” is inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle (Mbatha-Raw), the illegitimate mixed-race daughter of a Royal Navy Admiral. Raised by her aristocratic great-uncle Lord Mansfield (Tom Wilkinson) and his wife (Emily Watson), Belle’s lineage affords her certain privileges, yet the color of her skin prevents her from fully participating in the traditions of her social standing. Left to wonder if she will ever find love, Belle falls for an idealistic young vicar’s son bent on change who, with her help, shapes Lord Mansfield’s role as Lord Chief Justice to end slavery in England.
Asante directed the screenplay from writer Misan Sagay.
Belle also stars Tom Wilkinson, Emily Watson, Sarah Gadon, Penelope Wilton, Miranda Richardson, Tom Felton, Sam Reid, and Matthew Goode.
Expect “Belle” in theaters May 2, 2014.
