Wyn has been reviewing most of the movies, but I felt so strongly about this one that I'm taking a turn.
I saw this film a few weeks ago, quite by accident and without high expectations. My man was taking Spanish classes, so I added Spanish language films to our Netflix queue so he could practice listening to Spanish speakers. I watched it a little reluctantly, but after the first few scenes I was spellbound. Since then, I've thought of this film everyday.
The film follows a Colombian girl named Maria Alvarez who accidentally gets pregnant and becomes a drug mule to earn money for her family. I won't give up the plot by revealing exactly what that entails. This film tells a unique story in my experience with movies, a story that changed my perspective on the drug trade, immigration, and courage.
Besides the fantastic story, this movie's strength lies in its lead, Catalina Sandino Moreno, who, according to IMDB, received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Maria Alvarez. She plays her complicated role with strength and determination.
The title of the movie references the Hail Mary, a Catholic prayer. Maria wears a gold cross throughout the movie. I've considered in detail what the name of the film means, and this is my theory: Even though Maria is no virgin, sometimes acts immaturely, and becomes involved with drugs, she carries a child, for whose sake she shows incredible courage. She also gives incredible sacrifices for her family, friends, and the women who travel with her. By the end of the film, she proves herself to be full of grace.
Andrea's Review:
Wyn's Review:
No comments:
Post a Comment