Movie: Frida Type: drama Original Release Date: 2002 Rating: Starring: Salma Hayek, Alfred Molina, Valeria Golino, Mía Maestro, Geoffrey Rush, Ashley Judd, Edward Norton Directed by: Julie Taymor

Synopsis:
This movie tells the fascinating story of Frida Kahlo, a Mexican surrealist painter of the early twentieth century who channeled a lifetime of pain and suffering into her intriguing and provocative art.

I would recommend this movie!

Why?
I first heard of this film by watching a "behind the scenes" documentary about it on cable television, so I knew going into it that Salma Hayek had been working for years to get this film made and that it was a project very close to her heart. You can see her dedication in the finished product, and she delivers the performance of her career in this movie.

I was absolutely captivated by the entire experience of this film. Not only does it tell an incredible story but it is gorgeous to look at, incorporating incredible detail from Kahlo's actual art. Sometimes paintings become part of the scene; sometimes the scenes become paintings. Both techniques serve to demonstrate just how connected Frida's life was to her work.

The day after I saw this movie, I viewed the entire film again. The second time I turned on the director's commentary, and gleaned even more from the film through the insights provided by Julie Taymor. I also recommend watching the interview with Hayek.

Music plays an important part in this film, too, and Frida is just as beautiful to listen to as it is to see. In addition to being a treat for all senses, the entire tapestry is a feast for the mind, heart and soul. I highly recommend it!

Note:
Frida and her community of artists led a rather Bohemian lifestyle, which is realistically but tastefully portrayed with some nudity.

Employee Initials: CP Review Date: July 2003

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