Hola Frida (2024)

-Written by Kristin Ciliberto.

Hola Frida is a tribute to Frida Kahlo, and it is not your traditional biography, directed by Karine Vézina and André Kadi, geared towards young audiences. The film was adapted from the Canadian picture book written by Sophie Faucher and illustrated by Cara Carmina, “Frida, C’est Moi.” 

Layla Tuy-Sok voiced young Frida, while Angela Galuppo voiced adult Frida. Frida lived in a small Mexican village as she was a typical little girl who was a free spirit, loved to play, went to school, and had a very loving family. Frida dreamed of becoming a doctor; however, she was only six years old when she was diagnosed with polio. Alone and confined to her bed, she finds comfort in painting pictures with her mind. The film shows how art and creativity sparked her imagination and her ability to escape from reality.

Kahlo was one of the most recognized and iconic modern artists who had incorporated surrealism, expressionism, and Mexican culture into her work. I remembered learning about her in elementary school in my art and history classes, and films like Hola Frida would benefit from being shown in schools today. The most interesting element is how playful the storytelling is. It is a simple story that aims to inspire overcoming challenges and obstacles, given how resilient she became.

There have been documentaries and other films inspired by Kahlo, including Julie Taymor’s film Frida (2002), where Salma Hayek portrayed the artist. Kadi and Vézina’s film is more age-appropriate. Targeted toward younger audiences, Hola Frida encourages them to be inspired and never be afraid to imagine. However, knowing the film’s target audience, it comes off as something audiences would see on Nick Jr. or Disney Jr., which is not a bad thing, but might deter some viewers. 

The story focuses on her childhood living with her family. She has a tight-knit family; her mother Matilde is voiced by Lucinda Davis, her father Guillermo is voiced by Marcel Jeannin, and her little sister Cristina is voiced by Gaёlle Serra, who are all there to support her even if her mother is strict on her at times. The script is not perfect, but Hola Frida explores mature themes that children can understand and relate to. I believe children won’t be bored by this story either, given how lively the production is. Plenty of imagination that is filled with wonderfully bright, vibrant colors and various animals Frida interacts with, including monkeys and dogs. Frida has plenty of charm, and the film highlights her good qualities, creating a well-rounded character. 

It is not a groundbreaking telling of Kahlo, but there are some redeemable qualities to it. Hola Frida is a heartfelt, educational, and family-friendly watch that is meant to inspire. The film is intended to show how resilient Kahlo was. Based on the direction and care of the story, Hola Frida is sure to find the right audience or even classroom.

Directed by Karine Vézina & André Kadi.

Written by Anne Bryan, Sophie Faucher, & André Kadi.

Starring Layla Tuy-Sokm, Lucinda Davis, Marcel Jeannin, Gaёlle Serra, Angela Galuppo, etc.

6/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE