Ma Belle, My Beauty is a 2021 drama film written and directed by Marion Hill. The movie tells the story of two former lovers, Bertie (Idella Johnson) and Lane (Hannah Pepper), who reunite in the heart of France after Laneâs music tour. However, Bertie is now married to the French musician Fred (Lucien Guignard), and the trio embarks on a journey of emotional discovery.
The film is set in the picturesque countryside of Southern France, where Bertie and Fred are living a bohemian life in a renovated farmhouse. The couple runs a successful winery and practices sustainable farming, trading their products with the neighbors.
The story begins with Bertieâs unexpected arrival in the farmhouse, after a two-year separation from Lane. Bertie is initially reluctant to see Lane, but Fred persuades her to invite Lane over for dinner. The meeting is awkward and tense, but gradually the two women start reconnecting, playing music, and reminiscing about their past.
Lane is now in a relationship with the wealthy Theo (Sivan Noam Shimon), who is her manager and travel companion. Laneâs music career is skyrocketing, and Theo is pushing her to move to New York and sign a big contract. However, Lane is struggling with writerâs block and the pressure of success. She is also questioning her relationship with Theo, who is controlling and demanding, and seems to have little regard for her feelings.
As Bertie and Lane spend more time together, the chemistry between them rekindles, and they start exploring their attraction. However, Fred is wary of their relationship, and he confronts Bertie, warning her not to hurt his feelings or disturb their marriage. Fredâs insecurities come to the surface, and he reveals that he still has feelings for his ex-boyfriend, Jules (Bastien Ughetto), who left him heartbroken.
The film delves into the complexities of polyamory and the challenges of navigating love and desire in unconventional relationships. The characters grapple with jealousy, trust, and communication, and the narrative avoids easy answers or moral judgments.
The acting in the film is superb, with Idella Johnson and Hannah Pepper delivering nuanced and heartfelt performances as Bertie and Lane. The chemistry between them is palpable, and their musical collaborations are one of the highlights of the movie. Lucien Guignard also shines as Fred, bringing a mix of sensitivity and vulnerability to his role. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Sivan Noam Shimon, Bastien Ughetto, and others delivering memorable performances.
The cinematography of the film is stunning, capturing the beauty and charm of the French countryside, with its vineyards, orchards, and old stone houses. The camera work is fluid and intimate, allowing the viewer to immerse themselves in the characters' emotions and experiences.
The soundtrack of the movie is another standout element, featuring original songs and compositions by Alexis Marsh and Samuel Jones. The music blends different genres and influences, from jazz to folk to indie pop, creating an eclectic and evocative atmosphere.
Overall, Ma Belle, My Beauty is a thoughtful, intimate, and emotionally resonant film about love, passion, and identity. The movie explores the complexities and nuances of human relationships with sensitivity and empathy, and it leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
Ma Belle, My Beauty is a 2021 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5 and a MetaScore of 65.
