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Reviews
La Soledad (2016)
Shocked to Learn These Aren't Professional Actors
I decided to watch this movie because I was interested in learning more about the crisis in Venezuela from the perspective of those living it. However, I thought that this certainly would be a fictitious, if authentic feeling, take. I am flabbergasted that this is a true story portrayed by those experiencing it.
Where others may find the movie static, I found it compelling and appropriately paced for an intimate story that is unfolding practically in real time. Importantly, I had no idea that the actors were not professionals until researching the film afterward. The unvarnished vulnerability and searing honesty is breathtaking.
Glimpsing how the characters experience joy in the midst of devastation is definitely worth the watch.
Cholitas (2019)
A Joy to Watch
This was a beautiful film, both because of the stunning views of the Andes mountains and because of the unvarnished authenticity of the women sharing their lives. The "cholitas" themselves are also striking to observe in their decorative attire--worn even when climbing the tallest mountains in the Americas.
My only complaint is that I wish there were more. The roughly one hour runtime means that we get to spend less time with each of the women than is ideal. All five women have rich stories, yet we get only glimpses of them. I want to learn more about their origins, and likewise would love to hear more about where they headed next.
Worth the watch.