From Directors André Kadi and Karine Vézina comes this beautiful, animated story about a little girl, Frida Kahlo, who overcomes the many adversities that she experienced during her youth. Hola Frida is based loosely on the real life of the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Writers Anne Bryan, Sophie Faucher and Kadi respectfully highlight Kahlo's positive aspects and strong determination defying the odds of having a physical disability.
The story takes place in the early 1900's in Coyoacán, Mexico where little Frida (voiced by Emma Rodriguez and Olivia Ruiz) is playing and singing, just full of life and charisma. She has a deep benevolence for animals and a strong bond with her dog Chiquita. Frida has a loving relationship with her younger sister Cristina (voiced by Rebeca Gonzales). Their father Guillermo (voiced by Manuel Tadros) works as a photographer who is creative and continuously encouraging Frida to pursue her artistic talents. Their mother Matilde (voiced by Sophie Faucher) is assertive and maintains the family together during difficult times. When Frida is diagnosed with polio, she goes into the world of imagination where she finds her strength to pull through the pain and evade the clutches of La Muerte (voiced by Annie Girard). With her father's inspiration, Frida channels her anguish through coloring pictures and creating artwork.
After overcoming polio, Frida is teased by Rafael (Joey Bélanger) because of her deformed leg. Her friend Tonito (Léo Côté) comes to her defense and proves he is a friend that she can rely on. Regardless of Rafael's demeanor, Frida shows compassion and understands that Rafael's emotional pain stems from the loss of his father. They all instantly become close friends, which becomes an essential part for Frida when she encounters another misfortune during her first year in college.
The story of little Frida is full of warm felt moments that will tug the strings of your heart. It is a story of magnificent resilience and loyal friendships. The music score was moving with the rich, lively sounds of mariachi. The artistic style of imagery, created by Art Director Marie Michelle Laflamme, captures the historical culture of Mexico and the traditional practices of Zapotec. The use of vibrant colors is an ideal representation of Frida's vivid imagination on the celebration of life and the use of grey scale indicating gloom and pain.
Hola Frida is a wonderful tribute to the late Frida Kahlo. It is an excellent film for all ages to discover the enchanting history of Mexico, while learning to find your inner strength when encountering the challenges of life and to embrace opportunities. Viva la vida! Long Live Life!
**Review also posted on Countdown City Geeks webpage***
