I recently watched “Bella” (2006), an independent film that I found well-acted, moving, and with a strong pro-life theme.
Nina, an unmarried waitress, is fired from her job shortly after finding out that she is pregnant. The chef, whose brother owns the restaurant, takes the day off to be with her. It isn’t a story of romance so much as a story about love and caring for another human being.
This isn’t your typical “Christian” film, with all the predictable syurpy dialog that I associate with some I’ve seen. In “Bella” you’re seeing the grit and pain of real life. However, the filmmakers are committed Catholic Christians. The production company is named Metanoia Films. (Metanoia means “repentance” in Greek.) And the message of love, healing, and redemption comes through loud and clear — though unexpectedly.
The movie stars Tammy Blanchard and Eduardo Verástegui, actors I had never heard of, who did a very convincing job with their parts. Verástegui is also part owner of Metanoia Films.
“Hollywood belongs to God,” said Verástegui in an interview.” And we need to take it back. And that’s what I’m trying to do, by example first, trying my best every day to be involved in projects that will inspire people to use their talents to do something positive for the world.”
I recommend “Bella” to you as a DVD worth renting and watching. It is rated PG.
Tags: Bella, Christian film, DVD, Metanoia Films, pro-life