Based on the true story of mulato ward Dido Elizabeth Belle in 18th century England this highly satisfying, well-mounted costume epic features a star-making performance by Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Although there is considerable dialogue, the film in no sense is "too talkie." Crucial issues of slavery and personhood are tackled as the story reveals how miserable and restricted the stodgy British class system was in those days. And people in society were driven by possessions and money; hanging on to family property while sacrificing personal happiness. Marriages were arranged by family patriarchs with an eye on advancing family fortunes. As well the movie shows how the status quo was jealously guarded by existing laws. If anything this movie is a marvellous history lesson about dehumanization in days of yore. Aren't you glad you're living in this day and age?
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