When one glances across the plethora of film genres, one sees action/adventure, drama, comedy, etc. Then in a little area all its own, there exists a whole different kind of film: independent. Independent simply means that the film was not supported in its production by a major film studio (i.e. Paramount, Universal, etc.). So why are these distinguished from others? What is it that makes them unique? There are three main aspects that separate independent films from major studio movies. 1. Independent filmmakers are allowed more freedom in technical aspects and in the issues they are permitted to confront. 2. Independent films are always made on a very strict budget. 3. Unfortunately, most independent films aren’t that great. Many times talent and professionalism are given up in exchange for freedom in other areas. With that said, Bella is an independent film in every sense of the word. Yet, it is a good independent film. In fact, it’s great.
In this review, I’ll focus on three aspects of the movie: its central plot, the technical aspects used to portray that plot, and the message one receives at its completion. Bella takes place in New York City. Its central character is Jose, a former Mexican soccer star turned Mexican restaurant cook. He works for his dictatorial brother, Manny, the owner of the restaurant. One day one of the waitresses, Nina, shows up for work several hours late. It’s the third time, and the restaurant’s rules are three times and you’re fired. After Manny fires her, Jose goes off to talk to her. He can tell she’s in distress. It’s then that Jose finds out she’s pregnant. Like so many young women these days, the father is nowhere to be found; and would-be mother is planning on having an abortion. Jose spends the rest of the day wandering around New York in his cook garb talking to her and takes her to his parents’ house a short train ride away.
This seemingly simple story is told in a complex way. By utilizing flashbacks, one slowly gets to know the characters as they talk to each other. One such instance, involves Jose’s past. You’re probably wondering why anyone would trade being a soccer star for cooking. No, he doesn’t have a passion for making fine cuisine. Rather, a significant tragedy happened that landed him in jail for 4 years and changed his views on the value of life and on life in general. In order to maintain the innocence of the reader (and not give away spoilers), I won’t go into detail. In this way, the independent nature of the film works for its benefit. It wouldn’t be half as good without its well-thought-out visual storytelling.
One may have guessed the message of the film. It is decidedly pro-life but not in a way that seems preachy or over-the-top. The theme is never blatantly declared with an “abortion is bad” statement. Instead, the film allows one to connect with the characters and make his decision based on their emotions and experiences. People are easily turned away by an obvious attack on their beliefs. Bella doesn’t attack. It softens and persuades.
It can be easily said that Bella is this year’s breakthrough film. No one could have expected a movie made with little money and with virtual unknowns to be enjoying the success that it has. It won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival and was even honored with the Smithsonian’s Legacy Award. President Bush also bestowed the American By Choice award on the film’s director, Alejandro Monteverde. However, despite all this, critics have dismissed it. But that is another matter. Bella is an incredible film. It’s not perfect, but it deserves your attention. The direction is great, the plot is great, the acting is great, and the message is great. What more can be said?
Print
E-mail
