Frida

By Karoline Czerski

Whether or not this was the best film of the year, or even my favourite, I can’t confirm. But, like a piece of history that helps shape your conception of the world, it ingrained itself into my conscience and left me decidedly enriched.

Frida is the story of an artist who, crippled early on in life, rose to fame in her native Mexico through her paintings and her riveting character.

Even though the film is primarily a revelation of Frida’s passionate and eccentric character, it also plays tribute to her husband Diago Rivera and his life and works, as well as the political situation of the time.

Director Julie Taymor is a visual master. She stays true to the beauty of the characters, while utilizing her own creative talent as a painter and artist. She transforms the screen into a moving picture, flowing out of canvas and into reality.

Salma Hayak, who also produced the film, gives an outstanding performance as Frida, uni-brow and all. Most interesting is a historical reference to Leon Trotsky, the Soviet politician who was exiled in Mexico and who was hosted by the Rivera’s upon his arrival. While the movie may have introduced much of its own interpretation of events, the story remains genuine and captivating.

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