Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Young artist faces illness in vibrant animated biopic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Hola Frida
What's the Story?
HOLA FRIDA tells the childhood story of renowned painter Frida Kahlo (voiced as an adult by Olivia Ruiz in the original French dialogue and by Angela Galuppo in the English-language dub), which includes her intense battle against polio. Young Frida (Emma Rodriguez/Layla Tuy-Sok) uses both her artistic skills and her bountiful imagination to create worlds for herself to escape to when her illness threatens to steal her joy for life. But she can't escape the fact that La Muerte (Annie Girard/Holly Gauthier-Frankle), who wants to take her away forever, is waiting in the wings.
Is It Any Good?
This beautifully animated, colorful, emotionally resonant look at Frida Kahlo's childhood is a lovely tribute to the life of a brilliant painter and historical figure. Hola Frida does a great job of gently introducing the concept of chronic illness to young viewers by showing the emotional toll that it can take. Young Frida demonstrates how you can bravely live through tough times in life by using your imagination to keep you connected to what makes you happy.
Another important takeaway from the movie is the idea that while La Muerte may want to take Frida, she's not a villain. Mexican mythology views death as a part of life, so La Muerte isn't portrayed in an evil way. Her voice is nurturing and soothing, even if her appearance isn't. She also feels empathy for Frida, who wants to live life to the fullest. The result is a sweet story about an icon that both entertains and thoughtfully educates.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about perseverance. How does Frida demonstrate perseverance as she battles polio in Hola Frida? Is that the only part of her life that requires that character strength?
How does Frida's artistic talent help her throughout her diagnosis? What about her imagination?
Do you consider Frida a positive role model? How does she demonstrate courage? Compassion?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 8, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : August 8, 2025
- Cast : Layla Tuy-Sok , Lucinda Davis , Angela Galuppo , Oscar Vaillancourt
- Directors : André Kadi , Karine Vézina
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Level 33 Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Arts , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , History
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Run time : 82 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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