Belle, the lavish period drama which filmed on the Isle of Man in September, is scheduled to be released in UK and US cinemas in Spring 2014. The film has been acquired for distribution by Fox Searchlight Pictures, a unit of Twentieth Century Fox.
Inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, Belle is directed by BAFTA Award Winner Amma Asante and produced by Damian Jones, whose previous credits include the Academy Award winning ‘The Iron Lady’. Gugu Mbatha-Raw plays the lead in her first starring role along with Academy Award nominee Tom Wilkinson, Academy Award nominee Emily Watson, Sarah Gadon, Penelope Wilton, Academy Award nominee Miranda Richardson, Tom Felton and Matthew Goode.
Filming of Belle took place on the Island between September 24th and October 10th across many locations on the Island, including Castletown harbour which was transformed to depict Bristol docks.
“We are thrilled this magnificent film has found the perfect home. The Fox Searchlight team's understanding of the film and its potential makes for an incredibly exciting journey through release and beyond,” said the film’s producer Damian Jones.
“Belle is a beautiful, engaging film we’re extremely proud of. Fox Searchlight Pictures will ensure the film gets the audience it richly deserves,” said Mike Reaney, Isle of Man Film.
Belle was the first project to go into production following the announcement of a new partnership between Pinewood Studios Group and Isle of Man Film. Since the partnership took effect the Island has received several productions including DOM HEMINGWAY (Jude Law, Richard E. Grant, Demian Bichir), THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE (Susan Boyle, Samantha Barks) and groundbreaking suspense chiller CAMERA TRAP.
This week, OUR ROBOT OVERLORDS commences filming on the Island for four weeks. Sir Ben Kingsley and Gillian Anderson star in the sci-fi action drama which will boast stunning visual effects.
Photo - Gugu Mbatha- Raw (right) as Dido Belle with Sarah Gadon (left) as Elizabeth. Courtesy of David Appleby.
Researching your Manx family history can be a very interesting and rewarding hobby. Trace your roots in the Isle of Man with our helpful of guide.
