A heartwarming film that earned the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival is the Bermuda International Film Festival's May Film Series presentation.

Inspired by true events, the film is a story about friendship, family and our capacity for love in the face of the unexpected.

'Bella', which has earned four other festival awards and nearly $8 million at the box office in the United States, will screen on Thursday at 7.30 p.m. in the Tradewinds Auditorium at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

An international soccer star (Eduardo Verastegui) is on his way to sign a lucrative contract when something happens to bring his career to an abrupt end.

Now a cook in his brother's restaurant, Jose retreats from the world until Nina (Tammy Blanchard), a beautiful waitress struggling to make it in New York City, discovers something about herself that she's unprepared for.

In one irreversible moment, a simple act of kindness brings them together and turns an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience. Before the day is through, Jose must confront his own haunting past to show Nina how the healing power of love can help her embrace the future.

Tickets, $8 for BIFF Film Club members and $10 for non-members, can be reserved by e-mailing the festival at info@biff.bm.