The idea of chronicling a real-life figure is usually reserved for a live-action biopic that tackles the biggest hits of someone’s life and/or career. But, directors Karine Vezina and Andre Kadi take a different approach with their animated film focusing on the childhood of iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, delivering a lively, surprisingly emotional coming of age tale.
The film, Hola Frida, takes viewers into a fictionalized depiction of Kahlo’s (Emma Rodriguez) upbringing that sees her artistic vision form through turbulent woes surrounding illness and doubt. Hola Frida is a visual treat from the start, as its animation carries the same vibrant spirit and uniqueness as Frida, herself. The color palette is an absolute feast for the eyes that matches Frida’s imaginative nature. Often, Frida’s personal aspirations and depictions of influential Zapotec culture are designed fittingly for her adventurous ambitions. Colors pop with an inviting warmth, and the 2D animation is both nostalgic and fresh-feeling. It’s almost like you’re watching a children’s storybook on Kahlo play out on-screen, and there’s such a fun use of Frida’s imagination that blurs reality and fantasy in great ways.
Even at such a young age, Frida is shown to be curious and bursting with creativity — which Vezina and Kadi show excellently. It’s always fun to see Frida’s imagination bleed into the real world and there are some great sequences that are both visually and thematically powerful. There’s a touching moment where Frida sees everyone’s inner animal after a bully makes fun of her skinnier leg that’s sweet and deeply moving. The scenes of her traveling to this fantasy world where she interacts with another version of herself evoke tender self-talk and showcase some intriguingly crafted depictions of Zapotec figures. Even within the most mundane moments, Frida’s drive and creative thinking culminate in some awesome animation. Whether it’s Frida skating in a local competition, training in a surprising montage, or adding color to her father’s black and white photos, Frida’s vision is brought to life with stunning aesthetics that audiences will instantly connect with. Plus, Frida’s dog companion, Chiquita, is an absolute gem, providing plenty of funny moments and adorable actions that viewers will swoon over.
Hola Frida isn’t just great animation, though, as its heartwarming aspects stem from its story as well. Along with some easy-to-love highs from Frida’s childhood that let her ambitious spirit evolve, we also see her deal with tough blows that allow her to rise from the ashes. Frida’s polio diagnosis effects her deeply and creates story beats that draw you closer to her pain. These massive obstacles make her life more challenging and, at times, take away the passion for life that burns inside her. It’s crushing to see those early moments of her being taken away from the things she loves, like running through her town or just attending school, and the social stigma of her “not being able to do the things she used to” is something that preys upon her life. Not to mention, the social barriers of Frida being a woman are apparent with dreams and ideas often being dashed because of the norms. It’s where the film easily finds its most compelling and impactful material—even if it can be a little blunt and lack a larger depth.
At times, the film is a tad ham-fisted in its messaging surrounding the rebuke Frida receives for challenging social norms. To be fair, Hola Frida is definitely directed more towards kids, so a more direct message is probably suitable and leaves a bigger impact. But, it feels like the film misses a greater depth at hand with Frida’s story in its larger themes—especially given Kahlo’s continued influence as a female artist and activist. Plus, the film’s ending is too tacked-on and glosses over pivotal years of Kahlo’s life and growth. It would’ve been awesome to see Frida take that creativity into her adult life filled with protest and personal exploration.
Instead, we just get a brief montage and a couple glimpses at her future that feel disconnected or try to incorporate a Zapotec storyline that lacks the punch it wants to have. Yet, even with some elements missing the mark, Hola Frida achieves something great: showcasing Frida as an inspirational figure for all ages. There are so many moments of growth and triumph that really make viewers connect with Frida on a personal level, and the smiles she creates through her energy and sense of wonder are heart-melting. It’s the type of compelling glimpse into the early greatness of an icon that’s rarely depicted, but given the love and care here to get viewers to see more of themselves in the most turbulent of times.
Hola Frida is a true hidden gem of the incredible animated flicks we’ve gotten so far in 2025, as it boasts an aesthetic and heartfelt story everyone can enjoy. It’s that type of inspiring trip through our childhood we all could use every now and again, and Hola Frida has the power to leave a lasting mark.
