Dove Review

The scenes and cinematography alone make “Belle and Sebastian” worth renting or owning! The story takes place on the border of Switzerland in the wintry and snowy Alps. The mountains and landscapes are breathtaking to view. One can’t help but wonder, “Is it really that beautiful there?” But indeed it is. The movie’s plot takes place in 1943 and Sabastian (Felix Bossuet) and his elderly friend Ce’sar (Tchesky Karyo) are in search of a “beast” that has killed several of Ce’sar’s sheep. He thinks it is a sheep dog but when Sebastian happens across the dog, a female dog he names Belle, he learns of her gentle side despite having been previously abused.

The plot revolves around Sebastian’s attempt to save Belle from traps are set around where she was last seen, and the story also focuses on Nazi occupation and a planned secret border crossing by several Jews. Ce’sar’s daughter, Angelina (Margaux Chatelier), leads the group in their attempt to find freedom.

The story is interesting, Belle is an amazing dog, and the boy’s efforts to save Belle make for an interesting story. And indeed it is Belle that reveals what is behind the killing of the sheep. Then there are those beautiful mountains to enjoy! We are pleased to award our “Dove Seal” for ages 12+ to “Belle and Sebastian.” It’s an enjoyable viewing experience.

Dove Rating Details

0

Faith

None

0

Integrity

Horse and sheep are seen shot on mountain and falling a distance below; man is injured and has bloody leg but it is only shown briefly; poacher is about to attack boy and dog attacks him; dog is shot and we see a little blood but he is treated and survives.

0

Sex

None

1

Language

Germans called "Krauts"-3.

2

Violence

Horse and sheep are seen shot on mountain and falling a distance below; man is injured and has bloody leg but it is only shown briefly; poacher is about to attack boy and dog attacks him; dog is shot and we see a little blood but he is treated and survives.

2

Drugs

Drinking in a few scenes and empty bottles are seen; comment about a character not being too drunk; character is drunk; man who drinks offers his thoughts that one should try drinking because "it helps" he says; brandy is used on a dog's wound; boy gives shot to a dog.

1

Nudity

Cleavage.

2

Other

Tension between characters; man is taken from his family and we see them cry; an upset boy says he will never forgive a man but he does; bitter woman over the war tells German man she doesn't speak to Germans but she feels differently when she sees a different side of him.