A raw and magical journey into the life of iconic artist Frida Kahlo told through her own words from diaries, letters, essays, and interviews. Vividly brought to life with lyrical animation inspired by her unforgettable artwork.
“Frida” chronicles the life of artist Frida Kahlo. Towards its beginning, the film makes sure to point out that Kahlo kept an animated diary, which director Carla Gutierrez, who makes her directorial debut with this documentary, has used as the source for this feature’s narrative. The implication is that these diaries are the only source used. The film’s description on IMDb states that it uses diaries, letters, essays, and interviews. If these sources were used for the movie, they aren’t mentioned in the documentary.
That’s a minor quibble that should probably be saved for later because, as a whole, Gutierrez does a fantastic job of painting a picture of Frida for the audience. The use of Kahlo’s own words (with the help of animated versions of Frida’s artwork) differentiates this documentary, giving it a vivacity by showing Kahlo’s style, creativity, and spunky personality. The documentary is enlightening, providing insight into the artist for those unfamiliar with her outside of her name, artwork, and perhaps the 2002 Julie Taymor-directed movie starring Salma Hayek.
Gutierrez refrains from the “talking head” approach to documentary filmmaking. No experts are talking to us about Frida’s life and accomplishments. Instead, Gutierrez uses still photographs, newspaper clippings, and archival footage (in addition to the already mentioned animated artwork) as visuals while a voice actor reads/reenacts Frida’s words. Other characters from Frida’s life are also brought in (using additional voice actors), allowing a mix of comments and thoughts from friends, family, and lovers into the film.
While the documentary covers almost all of Kahlo’s life, it is sometimes a little vague. The words about her early childhood are reminisces from her adult self. As such, her early years aren’t as heavily detailed as events from later in her life. Plus, outside of her multiple marriages to Diego Rivera, relationships aren’t fleshed out. Whenever a new voice speaks, text appears on the screen telling us who they are. Some people talk more frequently than others, implying a deeper connection to Kahlo, but Frida never mentions these people directly.
Despite my complaints, I did enjoy this documentary. I’m not a huge fan of documentaries, and I didn’t find myself growing bored or wishing I could be doing something else. In other words, it’s short and well-paced. Gutierrez’s documentary serves its purpose, offering viewers insight into one of the art world’s most famous names.
Exclusively on Prime Video Friday, March 15th
