The story centers around Dido Elizabeth Belle (played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw), the illegitimate daughter of Admiral Sir John Lindsay (played by Matthew Goode). Following her mother’s death, Dido is brought to live with her great-uncle, Lord Mansfield (played by Tom Wilkinson), and his wife (played by Emily Watson) at their estate, Kenwood House.
As Dido grows up alongside her cousin Elizabeth (played by Sarah Gadon), she becomes aware of the societal limitations imposed on her due to her mixed-race heritage. Despite her privileged upbringing, Dido faces prejudice and struggles to find her place in a society that views her as an outsider.
The film explores themes of race, class, and the legal battles surrounding the Zong slave ship case, which Lord Mansfield, as the Lord Chief Justice, presided over. Dido’s burgeoning awareness of her own identity and the injustice faced by those in the slave trade becomes a central focus.
In the climax, Dido becomes involved in a romantic relationship with John Davinier (played by Sam Reid), a vicar’s son and aspiring lawyer. Their relationship challenges societal norms and becomes entwined with Lord Mansfield’s legal deliberations.
The resolution involves Lord Mansfield’s landmark decision in the Zong case, addressing both the legal and personal implications of slavery. Dido’s journey toward self-discovery and her impact on those around her highlight the film’s central themes.
“Belle” received positive reviews for its historical accuracy, strong performances, and its exploration of important social issues. The film was praised for shedding light on a lesser-known historical figure and addressing complex themes with sensitivity.