Wendy Ide 

Frida review – beguiling documentary captures Frida Kahlo’s spirit and originality

Archive footage and animation inspired by the Mexican artist’s work combine in Carla Gutiérrez’s beautiful, intimate tribute
  
  

frida kahlo biting her necklace
In her own words… Frida. Photograph: Lucienne Bloch

Creative, colourful and – crucially – predominantly told through the words of its subject as recorded in her illustrated diary, this engaging documentary about the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo is a beguiling and rather beautiful tribute to her spirit and originality. Its deft blend of archive footage and lovely, organic animation marks the directorial debut of Carla Gutiérrez, who served as the editor on several documentaries about groundbreaking women including RBG, about Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Julia, which looked at the legacy of television chef Julia Child.

Kahlo’s life was full and eventful, but while the film doesn’t attempt to explore every aspect and every romantic connection, it does delve satisfyingly deeply into her interior life, explored through her artistic output.

  • In cinemas now and on Prime Video from 14 March

Watch a trailer for Frida.
 

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