Opening this weekend in select cities is director Amma Asante's Belle. The film is inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), the illegitimate mixed race daughter of an aristocratic Royal Navy Admiral (Matthew Goode). Raised by her aristocratic great-uncle Lord Mansfield (Tom Wilkinson) and his wife (Emily Watson), Belle’s lineage affords her certain privileges, yet also prevents her from fully participating in the traditions of her social standing. Against the ridged boundaries of proper society, Belle finds both her true self and true romance — and influences her uncle to take a role in bringing an end to slavery. The film also stars Sam Reid, Sarah Gadon, Miranda Richardson, Penelope Wilton, Tom Felton, and James Norton.
At the New York City press day, I landed an exclusive video interview with Gugu Mbatha-Raw. She talked about the incredible true story, what she knew before getting cast, how little the script changed while shooting, how she prepared for the role, the way she likes to work, her role in the Wachowski's Jupiter Ascending, and more. Hit the jump to watch.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw:
- Did she know anything about the story prior to making the movie?
- How the script didn't go through dramatic changes on set.
- How does she like to prepare for a role? Talks about what she did for Belle.
- Talks about working for the Wachowski's and her role in Jupiter Ascending.
