The phrase refers to a hypothetical biographical film about Belle da Costa Greene, potentially available for streaming on the Netflix platform. Belle da Costa Greene was a prominent librarian and art collector who managed the personal library of J.P. Morgan. A cinematic portrayal of her life could explore her professional accomplishments, her strategic navigation of social hierarchies, and the complexities of her racial identity, as she presented herself as of Portuguese descent while actually being African American.
The significance of such a film lies in its potential to illuminate the life of a remarkable woman who defied societal norms and achieved considerable influence in the early 20th century art world. A production of this nature could bring increased awareness to her contributions and spark broader conversations about race, identity, and the historical marginalization of African Americans. Furthermore, a narrative centered on her professional acumen could inspire contemporary discussions about the importance of expertise and access to cultural heritage.
