A nicely done bio-film on the life and mostly love of Frida Kahlo, a flamboyant Mexican Artist. Though her mood (in the film) is mostly fiery and alive, her paintings can often be dark. They communicate through canvas the pain of her broken bones (the result of an early life trolley accident) and broken heart (the result of a stormy romance with political artist Diego Rivera).

Nicely acted and painted with an energetic pace; "Frida" is mostly a love story with a backdrop of art and politics. Always involving and at a few turns, emotional, the picture is accented splendidly with surreal minuets in which Frida's moods are framed by a short a/v portrayal of one of her paintings coming to life. Aside from the use of the paintings, these minuets are nothing new ... Ally McBeal delighted in them as well as some teen show in the 80's (and probably others before). I've enjoyed them every time I've seen them; Director Taymor does an excellent job of spicing this film with them. In fact, I think my only suggestion would be to have added more.

Speaking of acting, Rush, Norton, Banderas, Judd all cameo. If you're fans of these actors and are expecting more than a few minutes screen time, you may be disappointed (though Rush does stay on a bit longer than a cameo). Hayek is good, but Molina as Diego may be even better. The film is nice, but doesn't quite break over the top.