" BELLE " DIRECTOR TO APPEAR AT BETHESDA ROW CINEMA ON SUNDAY

Belle, a historical drama opening today at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema, is generating a lot of buzz among movie critics. The film was inspired by an intriguing painting that led its director to research the history behind it. Based on a true story, the movie gives viewers a glimpse into the issue of slavery from a British perspective, and what impact a free black woman with aristocratic lineage may have had in a society where emancipation had not yet occurred.

Director Amma Asante will answer audience questions after the 1:30 PM showing this Sunday (May 11) at Bethesda Row Cinema, something I would like to see happen more frequently at the theater. So take advantage of the opportunity, long before Oscar buzz begins in earnest. You can order tickets for the 1:30 screening online now. To get some background, you can read Asante's letter to filmgoers, posted on Landmark Theatres' website.

Belle stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Dido Elizabeth Belle, and also features Tom Wilkinson and Sarah Gadon.

Belle (PG)

Running time: 103 minutes

Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema

7235 Woodmont Avenue

Photo courtesy Twentieth Century Fox