RKS 2025 CANADIAN Film: “Hola Frida”: Cheapened by Gringo Voices?

HOLA FRIDA is an animated feature film that introduces a new generation to one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century—Frida Kahlo. Known for her strength, resilience, and creativity, Frida revolutionized modern art through her unique blend of Expressionism, Surrealism, and deep-rooted Mexican culture. Her life and legacy continue to inspire audiences worldwide, and the film is dedicated to her indelible spirit.

Based on the celebrated animated series and book Frida, c’est moiHOLA FRIDA tells a playful and heartfelt story of Frida’s childhood. Set in vibrant Coyoacán, Mexico, young Frida finds refuge in her imagination as she faces illness—revealing the earliest sparks of the artist she would become. 

Visual appeal makes the film a draw for children but there are messages embedded within all the fun and frivolity and the intellectual ability of the child viewer will determine if the messages are successfully conveyed. The importance of determination and goal setting, confidence in your abilities, accepting your disabilities and moving on, learning to excel despite the disability, understanding that you have an inner strength and not accepting sexism.

Slightly distracting are the voices of Mexicans speaking flawless English throwing in the occasional Spanish phrase. This gringoism tarnishes the authenticity of the film. Spanish with English subtitles would be ridiculous for the non-Hispanic marketplace but at least let’s have voices with a bit of a Latino accent!

Watch the trailer here https://vimeo.com/1099738743/86b3d8b621

The film will have a theatrical release 8August2025.

RKS 2025 CANADIAN Film Rating: 71/100.

Published by Robert K Stephen (CSW)

Robert K Stephen writes about food ,drink, travel, film, and lifestyle issues. He also has published serialized novels "Life at Megacorp", "Virus # 26, "Reggie the Egyptian Rescue Dog" and "The Penniless Pensioner" Robert was the first associate member of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada. He also holds a Mindfulness Certification from the University of Leiden and the University of Toronto. Be it Spanish cured meat, dried fruit, BBQ, or recycled bamboo place mats, Robert endeavours to escape the mundane, which is why he has established this publication. His motto is, "Have Story, Will Write."

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