"The Lord redeems the lives of His saints." After watching the movie Bella, this phrase from the Psalms just kept coming to mind. It is a sentence in scripture that I treasure. It speaks truth, and it gives fresh hope. There are very few movies that impart truth in a real and captivating way. So many films today are marred with sex, language, and disturbing imagery unfit for any one's eyes. There are some that have profound truths, but due to content, they distort that which could be truly good. Goodness is easily traded for something dirty and cheap that will sell a theater seat. I am truly grateful for Bella. I don't know what inspired or motivated this film. My parents told me I should see it, and I am grateful for their suggestions. Bella, without the flair or unnecessary pomp, very simply spoke truth. It may not be the biggest box office hit of the year, but I promise you this…it made an impact for the good. Not all movies can claim that. The messages of love, life, and redemption are evident and moving. "The Lord redeems the lives of His saints." I was reminded of this verse, because the film reminded me that there is redemption. Bella was a gift. In ways that we humans can not possibly understand, God takes our mistakes and can use them for the good of those who love Him. It may not be our plan, but they are blessings in disguise. As a follower of Christ, I am the first to admit that I have royally messed up too many times to count. While I seek to follow His ways more closely every day, I am eternally grateful for His provision and grace in my sin. Thank you. Thank you for being part of a movie that didn't settle for less. It may not win any worldly awards, but I'm thinking it won quite a few smiles in heaven.
P.S.- I'm sending this letter to as many people who were a part of this film as I can track down. But I wanted to say, that you did an amazing job in the role of Jose. I pray that you will continue to find roles that will impart truth. And coming from a different angle, as a young woman, I greatly appreciate a movie that focused on a man who had integrity, humility, and selflessness. Just crossing my fingers that the young men of America are taking note! Sincerely.

Kathleen Parker

I saw Bella today and now after reading all about Edaurdo's conversion to a deeper relationship with God, I respect him enormously. So few of those which God has given the talent of acting ever recognize the giver of their gift. Eduardo is doing what I think everyone in the acting industry should do....try to make the world a better place. We all should do the same but we don't all have movie houses at our disposal. Bella was a great positive movie!!!!! God Bless you and your friend!

Diane Pekel

I knew nothing about Eduardo until about a week ago. I searched the internet and found his amazing testimony. It amazes me that someone as handsome as he is can be sold out for the Lord and live a life that would be pleasing to God. I saw the movie last night and was blessed by it. Keep up the great work. I look forward to seeing his next project.

Julie Davila - Houston

Hola! I don't know a lot of Spanish. I took it in High School, but didn't do much with it, since I live in Ohio. HA! Anyway, I really truly admire you Eduardo. A man with your beauty, voice, and skills that has such a bug heart for God, and truly strives to become the man that God wants you to be, is so encouraging to me. I am a Christian myself, and often find myself struggling in this life with his wills and giving up myself for him. But hearing your testimony for the movie BELLA really encouraged me to start again and keep trying until the day I die.

Adrienne Couasnon

Hi Eduardo, My name is Hazel Los Banos. I was wondering if your movie is going to be shown in Calgary, Alberta Canada? I heard of your movie through St. Philomena's shrine website and interestingly enough an email from my junk mail. I really want to see "Bella". Will you be selling it on DVD? Will the movie Bella be shown in Calgary,Alberta Canada? I also want to say that your testimony has really inspired me and thank you for being a good role model for those in the entertainment industry. I think it's hard being a strong Catholic in the entertainment business. See Eduardo, I have been singing and acting for years (not consistent though, on and off) And boy! I found it hard to be Catholic and share my faith with people who were also involved in the biz (whether it was theatre, showcases, classes). As well as vice versa - people who were religious didn't care for acting/singing or expressing creatively. (I think Hollywood gave the art a bad name) Well, I found that it was hard to find a balance between the two. So in 1997 during a pilgrimmage to Medjugorie, I prayed to God to show me if He wanted me to use these artistic gifts or if He had a different plan for me. I did novenas, rosaries, and prayers to the saints. Well when God answers, He really answers. The signs were non-stop and are still happening!..........The song in the Bella trailer "Dare You To Move" by Switchfoot has a special meaning in my heart. So when I had opened up my email (junk mail - which I almost never do) and clicked on the link to see the trailer...........upon hearing the song - I knew that once again God was telling me 'dare you to move' and asking me to say 'yes' to a special mission, calling, sharing of gifts. And because of that song, I was not only in awe of God's answer to my prayers but compelled to know more about the "Bella" movie. Thank you for sharing your testimony, for having the courage to make a movie that is inspirational, teach good morals and true to the Catholic faith. I pray that many more actors, singers, writers, and directors will use their gifts for the good. And soon people will not be afraid to be part of a positive change in the world. Thank you. You and the Bella team inspired me more than you know. Have a great day and God Bless! Sincerely in Christ.

Hazel Los Banos - Canada

I watched Bella the first weekend it was released and I hadn't had much to go on in seeing it. Just a quick glimpse at some reviews but hadn't seen trailers. I took my husband and told him this would be the one we'd watch. Both he and I were really touched by the movie. I think many men are handsome and beautiful out there, but the reason I enjoyed Eduardo was because of the humbleness and beautiful smile I saw every once and again during the movie. Movie was truly Bella and I cried, needing to do this at this time in my life. Bravo!

Olin Calderon

I'm Roshan from Sri Lanka. Although I'm from a far away country and I haven't watched a single film of Eduardo I was fascinated by hearing about the story of a successful film star (and a model, singer etc,etc) suddenly changing his way of life, becoming more religious and start doing only meaningful films which conveys a message to the society. It's a kind of a rare thing that could happen and I felt that I should learn more about him. I'm a Buddhist and I don't know much about Roman Catholic teachings. Anyway I know that all religions make people better human beings and no doubt that it had a great impact on him. In Sri Lanka I don't think many people have heard about Eduardo, although the younger generation watches a lot of Hollywood movies. But I have seen him in one of the Jennifer Lopez's songs, though I haven't heard about him at that time. But if they show the film "Bella" here in Sri Lanka, with a prior introduction to the general public I think many people would like to watch it. I wish both Eduardo and his film company all the best and I'm also looking forward to hear about more meaningful films made by them.

Roshan Maddage

I have not seen your movie yet but I plan to see it. I was reading your biography and its such a great relief to know there is good people out there. Good luck in your future.

Cecilia Zavala

Dear Eduardo. I have written to this website before to let you know how I loved the movie Bella, it touched my heart like no movie ever has. It has such a powerful message, that has made an impact on people who have seen the film. I read about it and saw the video on the above-mentioned roundtable in which Eduardo Verastegui was keynote speaker. Its wonderful to see that an actor takes time to speak and make a difference on issues that matter. I can clearly see that he wants to make the world a better place. He is a beautiful person inside and out. I am a volunteer with the Junior League of Miami in which these issues are discussed. We have a number of community projects to help people in need. Cheers.

Elvira Larrain Miami, Florida

Hola! Hope you are well. I wanted to let you know that I'm just being introduced to your wonderful, bountiful talents as an artist, actor. Bravo! Hats off dear. I was so enthralled with Bella that I was crying pretty much through the whole thing. I wasn't alone. Here in Berkeley,CA we were all under its spell. Your portrait of a a suffering, broken man running from his past was simply breathtaking. I just felt everything that you all were portraying. Fantastic!! Okay, now I can't wait to see what you for your next project.

Lisa Alter

Thank you for making a refreshingly wholesome movie. I pray that many in Hollywood hear the message and devote themselves to producing more films like this. Eduardo, thank you for living the example of biblical morality and values. May you know the favor and the peace of the Lord all your days!

Jeanne O’Hair - California