Thoughts on BELLE: An Inspiring True Story

I do believe this is the first movie I've reviewed on this book blog, but I enjoyed Belle so much that I wanted to share my thoughts. 

It has been quite some time since I've enjoyed a movie so much--in fact, not since Pride & Prejudice with Keira Knightly. It's a truly stunning movie from the acting to the sets to the costumes--everything. It's clean, powerful, dramatic, beautiful, and emotionally stirring. Anyone who enjoys British period movies that not only deliver an excellent story and superb acting, but also a message, would most definitely enjoy Belle. Highly recommended!

As I often do when I watch a movie that claims it's based on a true story, I immediately get into research mode and hunt up as much information as I can. Of course, Hollywood always touches things up when they turn fact into fiction. 

There is a book on which the movie is based. However, I believe I'll keep the passion and enjoyment of the movie fresh in my mind without reading the book. In truth, it's one of those times when I honestly believe a book could not possibly outshine, or compare to, the movie. Am I wrong? 

As a side note, I simply fell in love with the character John Davinier as portrayed in this movie--almost as much as I did Mr. Darcy. Almost. He is exactly the type of hero more of our books need!

Have any of you read the book or seen the movie? If so, what are your thoughts? Did you enjoy one or the other more, or both equally? 

Images: Obviously I did not take or create these pictures, so I claim no ownership. However, I borrowed them because I went out on a limb thinking the movie studio wouldn't mind their use alongside a 5-star review. :)