This Beautiful Fantastic (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story unfolds in a contemporary urban setting, primarily centered around Bella's home, her neglected garden, and the local public library. These locations work together to create a backdrop that reflects both the isolation of modern city life and the potential for personal transformation through creative spaces.

• setting
• locations
• bella home
• urban
• city

The movie is set in contemporary, modern times, reflecting current struggles with mental health and personal growth. This contemporary setting allows the film to explore relatable themes about creativity, relationships, and overcoming adversity within a present-day urban context.

• time period
• modern era
• contemporary
• year 2017

Bella's garden serves as a powerful symbol of her personal struggles and growth throughout the film. Once neglected, the garden becomes a physical manifestation of her emotional state and creative recovery. Tending to it represents her journey toward healing, self-discovery, and embracing her authentic self.

• garden
• symbolism
• nature
• growth
• healing
• transformation

The film centers on three interconnected themes: self-discovery, resilience, and hope. Bella's journey emphasizes embracing one's true self despite challenges, particularly through her struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The movie explores how perseverance through emotional turmoil and connection with others can lead to inspiring personal transformations.

• themes
• self discovery
• resilience
• hope
• personal growth

Mental health, particularly through Bella's experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a significant element of the film. The portrayal highlights the complexities of mental health challenges while showing how creative expression, nature, and supportive relationships can contribute to healing and personal growth.

• mental health
• ocd
• therapy
• psychological
• wellbeing

Bella Brown is the protagonist, a luminous yet troubled spirit who battles obsessive-compulsive disorder while striving for creative fulfillment. She begins as a reclusive librarian and evolves into a blossoming author, with her journey symbolizing hope, resilience, and the transformative power of self-discovery.

• bella brown
• protagonist
• librarian
• author
• main character

Alfie Stevenson is Bella's gruff yet endearing neighbor who plays a crucial role in her transformation. Through a combination of tough love and unwavering support, he motivates Bella to face her fears and revitalize her garden. His surprising legacy adds depth to his character, highlighting the importance of community and friendship.

• alfie stevenson
• neighbor
• mentor
• community
• supportive

Billy is an imaginative free spirit who inspires Bella's creativity and pushes her out of her comfort zone. His whimsical nature and supportive demeanor provide a poignant contrast to Bella's struggles, embodying the theme of connection and the transformative power of relationships in overcoming personal challenges.

• billy
• imaginative
• creative inspiration
• whimsical
• friend

Vernon is Alfie's devoted cook who adds warmth and care to the story. His loyalty and dedication to both Alfie and Bella exemplify the themes of friendship and support throughout difficult times, symbolizing the nurturing side of helping others heal.

• vernon
• cook
• friend
• loyalty
• supportive
• nurturing

The public library serves as a haven for Bella, providing a tranquil space for her to explore her creativity away from the chaos of urban life. This setting represents knowledge, shelter, and the potential for intellectual and artistic growth, making it a crucial element in Bella's journey toward self-discovery.

• library
• setting
• creativity
• knowledge
• refuge

Alfie's home represents more than just a physical dwelling, it embodies a supportive community and holds a hidden legacy that ultimately transforms Bella's life. The setting symbolizes warmth, mentorship, and the idea that true friendship can provide the foundation needed for personal breakthrough.

• alfie home
• community
• legacy
• support
• mentorship

The film emphasizes a deep connection between nature and the human spirit through Bella's garden. The act of cultivating the neglected garden mirrors the process of personal healing and creative recovery. This connection between nature and the human spirit underscores the movie's message about how engaging with the natural world can lead to emotional and spiritual transformation.

• nature
• garden
• human spirit
• healing
• transformation
• earth