In the film Bel Canto, the renowned American opera singer Roxane Coss (played by Julianne Moore) travels to South America to perform at a private party hosted by a wealthy Japanese businessman (played by Ken Watanabe). The party is held in honor of a powerful political figure who is expected to attend.
However, during the party, a group of guerrilla rebels led by Comandante Benjamin (played by Tenoch Huerta) storms the mansion, taking all the guests hostage. The political figure they had hoped to capture is not present, but the hostages are held nonetheless in hopes of forcing the government to release their imprisoned comrades.
Roxane is separated from the rest of the hostages, as the rebels are fascinated by her voice and want her to perform for them. She becomes an unlikely source of comfort and inspiration for both the hostages and the rebels, forging unexpected relationships in the midst of the tense standoff.
As the days pass, Roxane grows closer to the rebel commander and begins to develop an understanding of their cause. Her music becomes a symbol of hope and connection for all of them, as they navigate the uncertain and dangerous circumstances of their captivity.
Bel Canto is a poignant and atmospheric film that explores themes of empathy, culture, and the power of human connection. Directed by Paul Weitz, it's an adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by Ann Patchett.