BEL, directed by Louise Lockwood, will close the Edinburgh International Film Festival 2026. This profoundly moving film is a tribute to the life and art of the Kenyan-Scottish musician Beldina Odenyo, who performed under the name Heir of the Cursed.
In 2021 Beldina performed an unforgettable show at the the Scottish Album of the Year Awards. Only weeks later she died by suicide. In her wake she left behind intimate video diaries, writings and a trove of unfinished songs.
The film follows Bel’s big sister Leah, who inherits Bel’s hard drive of recordings and vows to release Bel’s posthumous debut album.
The closing night film takes place on 19th of August. You can purchase tickets here.
Beldina perfoming at SAY awards 2021
Bel and her sister Leah