Bella DVD

By Christopher Gildemeister

Release Date: Out now

MPAA rating: PG-13 for thematic elements and brief disturbing images

Starring: Eduardo Verástequi, Tammy Blanchard, Manny Perez

Recommended age: 12+

Overall PTC Traffic Light Rating: Green

Nina is a waitress who discovers she is pregnant. Jose is her co-worker, a cook with a tragedy in his past. Nina is not prepared to cope with motherhood and considers ending her pregnancy; but her friendship with Jose, and the influence of his family, show her that there are more possibilities to life than the negative ones she foresees.

There is very little content of concern in Bella. In a flashback, a bloodied body is very briefly and rapidly glimpsed. Since most of the movie is concerned with Nina’s pregnancy, many conversations center on the subject, but few are explicit. Nina considers abortion, but that discussion in particular is veiled and the subject is covered mostly by implication. One scene shows her going to a clinic, but she is ultimately unable to go through with the procedure.

The DVD release includes a director’s commentary track, behind-the-scenes and a making-of featurette, and a music video.   

Bella presents a powerful pro-life message, and shows how love, friendship, and compassion for others – even relative strangers – can literally make the difference between life and death. Bella has been honored by multiple film festivals, including the Heartland Film Festival, for its strong values and message.  The Parents Television Council is proud to award Bella with the PTC Seal of Approval^TM. Though there is no negative content, due to the movie’s mature subject matter the PTC does not recommend this DVD for viewers under age 12.