Hurt By Paradise follows the life of Celeste, a struggling poet who is trying to balance her responsibilities as a single mother with her passion for writing. She lives in a small apartment with her son and her best friend and neighbor Stella, who dreams of becoming an actor.
As Celeste navigates the ups and downs of being a poet in London, she encounters various characters, including an eccentric publisher, a self-absorbed fellow poet, and an older woman who offers her wisdom and perspective on life. Through it all, Celeste remains determined to succeed in her career and provide a better life for her son.
The film explores themes of friendship, motherhood, creativity, and the challenges of pursuing one's dreams in a world that often seems indifferent to them. It is a bittersweet and touching portrait of modern-day London and the people who call it home, featuring strong performances from Bellamacina and Brown as the two leads.