Korean American Christian Media

Bella - the movie

Review by Jean Lim

Contributions by Yoojin Han

Do you remember the last movie that moved you? So much, to the point that you told everyone you knew, “You have to see this film!” In a time where poignant storytelling has taken a backseat to the big Hollywood Blockbuster, stands a little movie that challenges the heart in a big way. This movie is called Bella. It doesn’t have spectacular effects, jaw-dropping cinematography, or dialogue and visuals that go for shock value. Instead, it offers a message of love, hope, and redemption with a healthy dose of simple truths and old-fashioned family values.

Alejandro Gomez Monteverde makes his directorial debut with a project that was truly a labor of love. Based on true-life experiences, and co-written with producer, Leo Severino, Bella’s story continued to unfold. The third piece to this puzzle was lead actor and producer, Eduardo Verastegui. All together, but separate – the ‘Three Amigos' found themselves in a place where they weren’t satisfied with the direction that Hollywood was taking each of them. Through providence, their lives intersected and their visions of only making films that matter – films that inspire and encourage while not compromising integrity- were perfectly matched. Out of that, their small and humble production company, Metanoia Films [Metanoia being Greek for repentance, stepping out of the darkness into the light], was birthed. Facing a mountain to get this story written, financed, and produced – but not without faith and tenacity, the film was made. It not only got made, but it went on to claim the coveted People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2006.

Bella Movie Trailer	Buy Now!

In a true New York minute where class segments are apparent and experiences are raw, two lives undergo a single day’s unpredictable spin. Cultural differences, emotional wounds, and unforeseeable circumstances bring together Jose, a mysteriously bearded cook (Eduardo Verastegui of ‘Chasing Papi’) and Nina, a jaded waitress (Tammy Blanchard of ‘The Good Shepherd’). Girl is late for work. Girl gets fired - by her boss who happens to be Jose’s well intentioned, but hot headed brother (played comically by Manny Perez). Boy chases girl. Girl and boy ride away in the subway. That chase ends up becoming an unforgettable day spent spontaneously outside their mundane jobs at the hip Mexican restaurant in the heart of NYC. Their chemistry is apparent – but not as one might expect. Jose’s past and Nina’s present converge to take them on a soul-searching journey in pursuit of redemption, through a celebration of family, culture, and ultimately - hope for the future.

Bella is the whole package: little league actors with major league talent, inherent moments that are subtle but fully loaded, and a message of love that is without condemnation. Simply, good storytelling has made a comeback. With ever-increasing buzz, 'Bella' upholds the power of true love and continues to captivate audiences all around.

You may have missed your chance to catch this heart-warming film in the theatres, but never fear. Bella is now available for purchase at Amazon.com. For a chance to win a private screening with the filmmakers, or to help ‘pay Bella forward’, please check out www.bella10campaign.com ‘Love is a movement. Find your 10.’

Actors: Eduardo Verástegui, Tammy Blanchard, Manny Perez, Ali Landry, Angélica Aragón