Clara Sola

Clara Sola is an extraordinary, exquisite, polished gem of a film which clearly radiates, not a Bergmanesque but a Bergman redux quality in its film work, acting, direction, gripping emotional pull and symbolism. Like many of Bergman films it is about reaction to traditional values which attempt to constrain vitality and cause deep distress as the confines are tested and broken. The main distinctions are two, the setting in a peasant community in Costa Rica instead of an aristocratic set of high class artists and that it is directed by a woman who centers the film in the world of women struggling with women's problems. It is one of the best.

In a world where films often compete in a sprint of special effects and high-octane action, "Clara Sola" chooses to meander through the woods at its own mystical pace, and what a delightful amble it is! Director Nathalie Álvarez Mesén takes us on a journey that's less about the destination and more about the sensory experience, like a leisurely walk through a Costa Rican forest, only with less risk of mosquito bites and more spiritual awakenings.

Our protagonist, Clara, played with the ethereal charm of a forest nymph by Wendy Chinchilla Araya, is a 40-year-old woman with the wide-eyed wonder of a child and the simmering rebellion of a teenager. Clara's journey of self-discovery, set against the backdrop of religious and familial constraints, is like watching a caterpillar turn into a butterfly, except the caterpillar is a middle-aged woman and the butterfly phase involves a lot less flapping and more sensual dancing with the forces of nature. The film's magical realism is so subtle, you'll find yourself wondering if that frog you just saw is indeed a prince or just a really good actor.

Let's not forget the cinematography! Every frame of this film is a love letter to the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, captured with a tenderness that makes you want to hug a tree or at least water your neglected houseplant. "Clara Sola" isn't just a movie; it's a 106-minute meditation session where you emerge feeling slightly more enlightened and with a sudden urge to adopt a horse. If you're in the mood for a film that gently tickles your soul rather than bombards your senses, give this gem a watch. Just a heads-up, you might find yourself spontaneously doing yoga poses by the end!

Clara Sola is quite a tour de force.

It is the first feminist movie I have watched in which the men (Santiago and Fran) are actually not toxic and mean at all. The social and religious norms are mostly enforced by the main female characters.

The film combines a political and sociological perspective with the esoteric beauty of magical realism. The spectator oscillates between contemplation, empathy and anger throughout the plot.

Clara Sola reminded me a little bit of Ixcanul and El Abrazo de la Serpiente. The main actress gives an unforgettable performance.

The debut by Nathalie Álvarez Mesén focuses on the woman's often unfair and unequal position in a deeply religious society. It tells a story of a sexual awakening and bitter resentment that comes from the rooted beliefs.

Besides spellbinding images it offers an intense emotional perspective of Clara (a role perfectly handled by Wendy Chinchilla Araya) emphasising the importance of freedom of sexual expression, of belonging and not-belonging, and of wide array of desires. Her niece, Maria, has everything that Clara dreams of. Joys of womanhood, sexual contact with a newcomer Santiago, and a relative freedom. Although Clara is obviously jealous of her niece's life, she is not blatantly clear about it, and this envy doesn't destroy their relationship which is full of mutual care, and to some extent also understanding.

The premise of the movie is very good. However, it fails to connect with the viewer. On several occasions it feels like the film is made for someone else, it fails to penetrate the viewer's consciousness. The photography is wonderful, the handling of the camera is excellent. The love of nature is shown in an extraordinary way. Finally, the music is horrible, very uncomfortable.