María Llena de Gracias (María Full of Grace) is a great movie full of suspense with scenes in both Colombia and the United States. It tells the tale of María Alvarez, an outspoken Colombian teen fed up with her life of working in a factory to support her family. She does not want to follow in the footsteps of her mother and sister: pregnant, abandoned by the men in their lives, and barely surviving. Embracing her rebellious side, she becomes involved in drug smuggling, which promises opportunities to travel and earn much money, but with major legal, personal, and social consequences. Her character is very brave as she makes her way to the U.S., knowing no English and traveling with lethal drugs inside her body as a “drug mule”.
The movie is really riveting and held my attention intensely throughout the film. As the action takes place in Colombia I was really draw in by the beautiful scenery but also how frustrated María feels in her small, impoverished village. As the scene shifts to New York City the contrast between lifestyles and countries is drastic. I love immigrant stories so it was really interesting to see all of María’s struggles (language, culture shock, lack of material things) and all of the opportunities that were available to her also. This is a great international film and definitely worth renting!
Posted by Clare, Seville, Spain, Spring 2007
No comments:
Post a Comment