When an English Naval officer locates his illegitimate mixed raced daughter, we’re introduced to a young Dido. Her father leaves her in the care of his uncle where she grows up alongside her cousin, Elizabeth in a lavish home where she is taken care of. Despite this care she is kept in ‘special circumstances’ which states she cannot attend public affairs or eat with her own family due to her illegitimacy and race. As Dido grows older she begins to question her surroundings and her place in the world.
The film claims to be based on true events which is an exaggeration becoming all to familiar in the film industry. The story was indeed inspired by a real figure, Dido Elizabeth Belle and a painting of Dido with her cousin, Lady Elizabeth Murray. Little is known of her life as she was excluded from her family’s social circle but was well cared for and educated despite this exclusion. The painting was commissioned by the girls great uncle, William Murray, then Lord Chief Justice of England and Whales.
The thing that really stands out about this film is that its the story of someone who lives between worlds. In the fight for racial equally, we often think of the two sides; whether they are divided by race itself or by moral standing. Being the illegitimate daughter of a slave and a English naval officer meant her social status was affected. Her mixed black African and white English heritage meant she was also considered between worlds racially. She is looked down upon by the white upper classes but is also resented by the black servants in her home.
The film is an interesting take on race in a time of social change. With a few well know faces such as Tom Wilkinson, Matthew Goode, Tom Felton and Miranda Richardson. The lead of Belle is played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw in her first lead role. The film is also directed by Amma Asante, (shock, a female director) in her second feature film project.
From the trailer this mix has given the film a fresh feel and a edge that makes it something to look forward too in 2014.