Movie Review: "Maria Full of Grace"

This 2004 Colombian movie is one of the best foreign films I have ever seen. While the subject matter of a young woman who takes the job of a drug mule may sound cliched, the production is captivating and extremely well executed. ------------- Initially, the film is shot in a documentary style, which gives it a feeling of veracity. Adding to this sense of realism is the acting, particularly that of the actress portraying Maria. You really don��t feel as though you��re watching a work of fiction or actors playing their roles; it seems incredibly immediate and real. ------- Most interesting is the way that the circumstances which impel Maria to take the job are brought out. Working in a sweatshop-like setting packaging flowers for export and pregnant by her seemingly immature boyfriend, Maria does not come off as a victim so much as one who willingly makes the choice to act as a mule as a form of assertiveness and to alleviate her family��s otherwise dire financial circumstances. Also worthy of mention are the scenes of the flight to America and arrival at the airport, which are fraught with suspense, tension and danger. ----------- I will refrain from discussing the events of the movie any further. Relatedly, don��t read any other reviews of this movie beforehand lest they give too much away (they are riddled with spoilers). -------- If you are in the mood for a realistic, intense and well done foreign film, this one is highly recommended.