Behind Bella

When was the last time you saw a movie at the theater with a pro-life theme? If you’re having trouble thinking of one, join the crowd. With all of their talk about celebrating diverse viewpoints, Hollywood filmmakers don’t appear to be comfortable portraying pro-life characters in a positive light. Which makes the movie Bella such a breath of fresh air. Although it debuted in limited release last weekend, Bella is an exceptional movie.

While you can read the full review of Bella at PluggedInOnline.com, I wanted to share the story behind the lead actor, Eduardo Verastegui. Eduardo was born and raised in Xicotencatl, Tamaulipas, a small village in Northern Mexico where his father was a sugar cane farmer. From those humble beginnings, Eduardo became a singer in the Latin-pop sensation Kairo. He went on to a highly successful solo career, singing before sold-out crowds in thirteen countries. Not only can he sing, this talented young man can act.

Having starred in five Spanish soap operas and several movies, Eduardo was voted one of the 50 Most Beautiful People by People En Espanol magazine. He had money, fans, fame, and starred with beautiful women. But he also felt a void in his heart. In 2004, he left his management company and talent agency and determined to only give his life to films that would inspire. Of course, that’s a tough road to follow. Eduardo found himself turning down scripts because he refused to be typecasted as a playboy or a criminal. Waiting for a role he could pour his heart and soul into, his cash reserves dwindled away. Month after month passed and still no work. With his finances virtually drained, Eduardo’s new agent presented him with a film that would have made him a million dollars. Eduardo turned it down. Why? Although there wasn’t anything objectionable about his particular part, he didn’t agree with the values presented in the rest of the movie. That’s integrity. Keep in mind he wasn’t in a position to pass on those kind of bucks. He’d been three years without work.

Sticking to his convictions, Eduardo lost just about every thing including his housing. At one point he was living in his SUV – a vehicle which he’d been given as part of a promotional deal with Cadillac. His agent explained that Hollywood-types are impressed by things like where an actor lives . . . and living in a car wasn’t exactly the way to instill confidence.

With a smile, Eduardo dismissed the concern. He said if someone wanted to know where he lived, he’d just park the car in Beverly Hills. Finally, Eduardo was presented with a movie of substance, one that captured his desire to inspire and touch the hearts of people. And inspire it does . . . Bella was the winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming story of family, friendship, loyalty and sacrificial love, look no further than Bella.

See you at the theater!