Belle

Inspired by the life of Dido Elizabeth Belle, Belle follows the story of a young woman (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) born to a West Indian woman and a British naval officer in the 18th century, who is taken by her father to be raised in England by her great Uncle, Lord Mansfield. She is raised as an aristocrat but society dictates that she should be an outsider. Her growing relationship with John Davinier (Sam Reid) and involvement in abolitionism attracts criticism from all sides and Belle finds her life growing more and more difficult.

A much more political period drama, Belle explores young love in a world of societal and racial prejudice. With lavish costumes and a fabulous cast, it’s definitely worth a watch.

Jess Walker