Life is a complicated journey in which right and wrong are sometimes indistinct and where the things that really matter are often unclear. Bella is a powerful, leisurely-paced film in which Jose (Eduardo Verastegui) and Ni... more »na (Tammy Blanchard) struggle to do what's right while seeking meaning in their lives. A quiet, brooding man with a dark past, Jose works as a chef in his brother Manny's (Manny Perez) restaurant where he mostly keeps to himself until young waitress Nina is fired. Touched by Manny's unfair treatment of Nina, Jose impulsively leaves work to follow Nina and spends a day with her where he discovers that she is pregnant and alone. The two become incredibly close in the space of a day, sharing their pasts, feelings, and fears, and a lasting friendship is born. As Nina struggles with her pregnancy options and Jose comes to terms with a horrific incident from his past, the pair's newfound friendship aids in growth and healing. In the end, Jose and Nina's lives become permanently intertwined in a most beautiful and unexpected way. Bella is a moving, introspective film that will inspire serious personal reflection. --Tami Horiuchi« less
Sharon F. (Shar) from AVON PARK, FL Reviewed on 6/11/2021...
Beautiful and heartwarming.
Leah G. (Leahbelle) from NIPOMO, CA Reviewed on 8/12/2018...
I can see why this was chosen as the best movie of the year by so many film festivals. It's definitely what my husband would call a "Feel Good Movie". I like watching a movie where I don't know the actors. It makes the story so much more realistic, and the acting in this movie was excellent.
Lenny N. (Qsrasra) from FORT BRAGG, CA Reviewed on 3/10/2017...
Beautiful little film. Definitely worth watching.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Amanda D. (sophiesperspective) Reviewed on 12/19/2014...
Genuine
Bella is the winner of the 2006 People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, and is refreshing in it's story and acting. This movie isn't about action and adventure, but it's a movie about life. Everyday life, and how two people cope with theirs. Part of what makes the movie so enjoyable for me is the acting feels real. When watching the movie I wasn't struck with the fake feel I get from so many typical Hollywood movies. This movie feels genuine, the tears and laughter seem real instead of put on to make money. I think a large part of that has to do with the case selected for this movie. They actually believe in the story and it's message, and aren't concerned solely about the money making aspect of the film. That makes this movie all the more real and powerful.
The movie is rated PG-13 (for thematic elements and brief disturbing images) largely for one scene. Most mature children probably 8 or 9 and up should be able to watch the movie and handle it well.
Bella has won several awards in addition to the People's Choice. Along with other accolades Edward James Olmos chose this movie to open the LA International Film Festival. At that time he said, "It is one of the most impressive landmark films to open our festival in 10 years ... a film people have to see, it really captures the heart and makes you think. It is one of the best films to come out in a long time."
I certainly agree, and highly recommend this movie.
1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Belinda S. (niara) from NEW YORK, NY Reviewed on 1/30/2013...
Stunning. Poignant. This one stayed with me long after the final credits. Movies you wish Hollywood had the guts to make. You almost felt like a voyeur, along for the ride. Not for everyone. Moments of sheer, unfortgettable, perfection. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this true piece of art.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Tom W. (PortTack) from MADISON, MS Reviewed on 9/20/2012...
Great story.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Ansley B. from MCDONOUGH, GA Reviewed on 8/16/2011...
This touching story is bold in its portrayal of emotions, ranging from devastation, compassion, fear, anger, love, and peace.
I was relieved to find that there was no fairy tale ending. Problems don't automatically resolve. However, through the love and hard work of true friends, we find strength to endure, to live, and to overcome.
This is a beautiful story of life, and of those who come to appreciate its value.
3 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Starla R. from YELM, WA Reviewed on 5/26/2011...
I did not really like this movie very much.
The message was okay, but there is a tramatic part in the movie, that i did not want to see. It is a very dramatic movie, I would not recommend this for children.
1 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Courtney B. (bergcourtney) from BIXBY, OK Reviewed on 5/12/2010...
A must see film. Amazing artistic development of character and screenplay. Well written. LOVED IT!
1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Frank R. Reviewed on 3/5/2010...
Awesome movie. Really pulls at the heart! Highly recommend.