Common Sense Media Review
By Mary Aviles
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Catchy musical based on telenovela has drinking, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
La Usurpadora: The Musical
What's the Story?
LA USURPADORA: THE MUSICAL follows identical twin sisters (both played by Isabella Castillo) who are separated at birth and are complete opposites. Valeria is humble and truly decent, while Victoria is frivolous, has addiction problems, and is married to a wealthy man. When the twins cross paths by chance, Victoria tries to convince Valeria to take her place at home so that she can take a vacation with her new lover. At first, Valeria refuses -- she doesn't want to leave her deathly ill grandmother -- but after Victoria accuses her of theft and she's threatened with jail, Valeria submits to Victoria's plan. She is, however, unaware of the destruction of the family and decides to work toward righting all wrongs.
Is It Any Good?
This two-hour musical is a lighter, comic version of the iconic same-named telenovela. La Usurpadora: The Musical pays homage to traditional soap operas, in which there's no shortage of plot devices like secrets, slapstick, falls from balconies, and miraculous recoveries after a coma. The main characters are always perfectly groomed, the grandmothers look the same age as their children, and domestic workers still wear uniforms, a clear nod to the classism typical of this type of story.
The best part of the film is undoubtedly the musical numbers, including hits by Selena, Gloria Estefan, Franco de Vita, Christian Castro, Ricky Martin, and Alejandra Guzman, who also makes a cameo. Speaking of which, there's also an appearance by the original usurpadora, Gabriela Spanic. Castillo doubles nicely to play Valeria and Victoria, and it's always a treat to see an actress like Susana Zabaleta (here, playing the youngest grandmother). Ultimately, the musical honors Latin culture, especially Mexican, and the balance of drama and humor make the story quite entertaining.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why they think soap operas like La Usurpadora continue to be so popular, especially among Latino viewers. Why do you think these over-the-top dramatic stories are so beloved?
If you've seen a play or musical live in the theater, how does the experience of watching this filmed version differ? What do you gain -- and lose? Do you have a favorite musical number? What makes it special?
In La Usurpadora there are infidelities, lies, and betrayals between siblings. Do you think soap operas are a positive or negative influence?
What kinds of stereotypes are explored in this musical? Does the movie serve to challenge or reinforce stereotypes?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 7, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : April 7, 2023
- Cast : Isabella Castillo , Alan Estrada , Susana Zabaleta
- Director : Santiago Limón
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s) , Gay Movie Writer(s) , Latino Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Pantelion Films
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Integrity
- Run time : 115 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong language, and suggestive material
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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