Frida (2002)

REVIEW
Talented and creative Taymor uses her lens like a paintbrush to bring to life the story of one of the 20th Century's most prolific artists. And Hayek gives all that she can to do the portrayal justice. As we take a walk through the tumultuous life of this artist, from her schoolgirl beginnings to the accident that would keep her in pain the rest of her life, the images presented are at once surreal and compelling. Molina does fine work as Diego Rivera, fellow brilliant artist and Frida's not-even-remotely-monogamous lover. With all the film's attention to stylistic detail, however, it seems as if it's missing a little of the pain that Kahlo's work was so much about. Hayek rarely brings out the true suffering this artist must have experienced in her daily life and work. But even with its minor flaws, the film still stands as glowing tribute to an enduring artist.