FRIDA: A Vibrant Journey into the Heart of an Icon
FRIDA takes us on a vivid journey through the life and legacy of the iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, guided by her own words and art. It’s like stepping into a living canvas, where every brushstroke tells a story and every color reveals a new facet of Frida’s captivating personality.
“In my life, I’ve only painted the honest expression of myself to say what I couldn’t in another way. I paint because I need to.” — Frida Kahlo
From the moment the film opens with Frida’s powerful words, you know you’re in for something special. Director Carla Gutiérrez invites us to peek behind the curtain of Kahlo’s life, sharing intimate letters, essays, and candid interviews that offer a fresh perspective on this enigmatic artist. The use of color and Kahlo’s own witty words, set the tone for a deeply personal exploration of the artist’s life, inviting us to discover the woman behind the legend.
As a publication with deep roots in Mexican culture, delving into Frida’s world felt like coming home. Her spirit, her passion, her defiance — it all resonated with us on a very deep level.
Throughout the documentary’s 87-minute runtime, we’re treated to a whirlwind tour of Frida’s life, from her rebellious childhood and tumultuous marriage to the famous muralist Diego Rivera, to her life’s work. But what truly sets FRIDA apart is its exploration of the many “Fridas” that existed within one remarkable woman.
We meet Frida the girl, that ‘chiquilla’ with an inquisitive mind, who dared to question and challenge societal norms from a very young age. Her curiosity was like a spark igniting the flames of her creativity. She challenged the religious beliefs of her conservative upbringing and found solace in the vibrant world of art and imagination.
Frida the student, eager to carve her own path despite the expectations placed upon her. She dreamed of becoming a doctor, a profession not commonly pursued by women in her time. Yet, she faced challenges fitting in with other young women her age, who saw her as eccentric and unconventional.
Frida the wife, married twice to Diego Rivera, who embraced a world of passion and creativity that often intertwined personal and professional boundaries. Despite facing challenges like Diego’s infidelities, she stood by him with unwavering loyalty, showcasing resilience and determination in defining her own artistic legacy and identity.
Frida the lover, who found solace and passion in both men and women. Her relationships were complex and passionate, reflecting her deep-seated desire for connection and understanding. She explored her sexuality openly and without shame.
And Frida the artist, whose vibrant paintings served as a window into her very soul.
One of the most poignant moments in the film is Frida’s struggle with her own health, following a near-fatal bus accident. We witness her pain, her strength, her resilience, and her unwavering determination to continue creating art in the face of adversity. The consequences of this accident would stay with her for life, shaping her physical health and ultimately contributing to her premature death.
But perhaps what resonated with us most is Frida’s almost stubborn commitment to authenticity. Despite the challenges she faced — both physical and emotional — she never compromised her true self. She painted her truth, she lived her truth, and in doing so, she became an icon for generations to come.
FRIDA is more than just a documentary; it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and the power of art to transcend boundaries. Just as Frida did through her paintings, Gutiérrez presents us with an honest expression of the artist, saying what she couldn’t in any other way.
So if you’re looking for a film that will inspire you, uplift you, and leave you feeling a little more connected to the world around you, look no further than FRIDA. It’s a masterpiece in every sense of the word.
FRIDA is available to stream on Prime Video worldwide, except for Mexico where it will hit theaters on May 9th via Cinepolis. For more information on tickets and availability, please check local listings. Follow us on X and Instagram for all queer stuff!
Featured image: Image Courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios.
