"MA BELLE, MY BEAUTY" // SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2021
If one were to ask about the history of polyamorous films in Hollywood, you might think you'd return with a short list. Possibly a list that might have one or two titles, but might be sending a negative message about having more than one partner. Yet you would be surprised at how long the history of positive polyamorous storylines have showed up in cinema, dating all the way back to 1933's Design for Living starring Gary Cooper (based on the Noël Coward play of the same name). MA BELLE, MY BEAUTY continues to explore polygamy in a positive light, showcasing a threesome reunited in a picturesque Southern France and the continuing evolution of their relationship.
Fred (Lucien Guignard), Lane (Hannah Pepper) and Bertie (Idella Johnson) were once a very happy threesome, together in a polyamorous relationship that supported all three of them. Now that threesome is a twosome, as Fred and Bertie have gotten married and Lane went off on her own. Currently, Fred has decided to surprising his wife Bertie by bringing Lane into town to stay with them. It's not so much for him, even though he thinks the world of Lane. But he indicates that he knows how happy Lane made Bertie and how much it's hurt her since she's been gone. Lane is weary of the situation, not knowing if Bertie will at all be excited to see her. As it turns out, and as expected, things are more complicated than a simple reunion. Bertie is not too pleased to see Lane and really not happy that Fred sprung this on her. Fred, meanwhile, may have a personal exterior motive for brining Lane there that really benefits him and his band (of which Bertie is the singer).
Bertie has recently seemed uninspired with the band and Fred thinks by bringing back the warmth the three of them shared, it could very well be the ticket to setting the band back on the right path. Without a positive change, the tour Fred has set them up on could crumble beneath them. To add another depth, once Lane arrives she ends up meeting a painter from Tel Aviv (Sivan Noam Shimon) and a quick romance builds. Whoever said love is simple doesn't know this set of friends. The cinematography by Lauren Guiteras and settings of the film are luscious, bold and warm. Romance feels like it's always in the air here, and it's aided by the breezy script by Marion Hill (who also directed) and some charming performances. The main trio all seem to shimmer on screen. Bertie is quietly breaking but still very assured of who she is and Idella Johnson's performance feels like a powerful force of nature. Hannah Pepper is a charming catalyst in the film, charming the screen to help you feel exactly why everyone wants her in their life. Lucien Guignard brings layers of warmth to his character, adding a supportive and understanding presence on the screen. MA BELLE, MY BEAUTY breaks down what may at first appear as an "unconventional" relationship and showcases just how similar it is to any relationship is. And by doing it through endless bottles of wine, warm days of sun filled streets in Paris, lived-in performances and a beautiful score by Mahmoud Chouki it makes the trip all that warmer of a stay.
GRADE: A-
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY Marion Hill STARRING Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, Sivan Noam Shimon SELECTED AS PART OF THE 2021 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL. FOR MORE INFO: MA BELLE, MY BEAUTY