When it comes to period dramas, James Norton is a go-to leading man. The 41-year-old actor has starred in a wide range of captivating historical pieces, from Greta Gerwig's Little Women and Lady Chatterley's Lover to War & Peace and House of Guinness – and one of his most underrated films is now streaming on Disney+.
The Happy Valley actor stars in the 2013 period drama Belle, which tells the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed-race daughter of an 18th-century admiral, who fathered the child with a slave and brought her to England to be raised by her great-uncle Lord Mansfield.
© Alamy Stock PhotoGugu Mbatha-Raw leads the star-studded cast as the title character, while James plays Oliver Ashford, a young aristocrat who takes a liking to Belle.
The film boasts an 82 per cent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and received positive reviews from critics upon its release.
Before you get the popcorn out, find out more about the film below…
What is Belle about?
The film tells the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate mixed race daughter of Admiral Sir John Lindsay (Matthew Goode).
The synopsis reads: "Raised by her aristocratic great-uncle Lord Mansfield (Tom Wilkinson) and his wife (Emily Watson), Belle's lineage affords her certain privileges, yet her status prevents her from the traditions of noble social standing. While her cousin Elizabeth (Sarah Gadon) chases suitors for marriage, Belle is left on the sidelines wondering if she will ever find love.
© Alamy Stock Photo"After meeting an idealistic young vicar's son bent on changing society, he and Belle help shape Lord Mansfield’s role as Lord Chief Justice to end slavery in England."
Who stars in Belle?
Gugu and James are joined by a seriously impressive cast, which includes Tom Wilkinson, Miranda Richardson, Penelope Wilton, Sam Reid, Matthew Goode, Emily Watson, Sarah Gadon and Tom Felton.
© Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/WireImaWhat have viewers said about Belle?
The film has been hailed by audiences as "excellent" and "underrated".
Hailing the drama as an "underrated gem", one viewer wrote on social media: "Gugu Mbatha-Raw's powerful performance brings depth to the story of race, class, and love. The film thoughtfully explores societal issues while showcasing personal resilience. It's a moving and impactful period drama."
Over on IMDb, one reviewer hailed the drama as a "must-see", writing: "The acting was superb! I don't remember a movie in recent times that I enjoyed so much."
Belle is available to stream on Disney+.
