La Llorona (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
La Llorona (2019), directed by Jayro Bustamante, offers a unique and culturally rich take on the classic Latin American legend of the weeping woman. This chilling drama combines elements of horror with a poignant exploration of historical and personal trauma. Starring María Mercedes Coroy, Sabrina de la Hoz, and Julio Díaz, La Llorona provides a fresh and disturbing narrative that stands out in the horror genre.
This review will examine the film’s plot, thematic depth, and performances, as well as provide information on where to watch La Llorona online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Tale of Ghosts and Guilt
La Llorona tells the story of a retired general, Enrique (Julio Díaz), who is under house arrest following a trial for crimes against humanity during a civil war. As he and his family face the consequences of his past actions, they are haunted by a supernatural presence.
The family’s domestic life becomes increasingly disturbed when a new maid, Alma (María Mercedes Coroy), arrives. Alma is connected to the legend of La Llorona, a vengeful spirit of a woman who drowned her children and now roams in search of vengeance. As strange and terrifying events unfold, the general’s family must confront their own guilt and the terrifying reality of La Llorona’s wrath.
The film blends elements of supernatural horror with a powerful commentary on the impact of historical atrocities and personal guilt. The ghostly presence of La Llorona serves as a metaphor for the haunting consequences of the general’s past actions and the unresolved traumas of the civil conflict.
Character Performances: Powerful and Immersive
María Mercedes Coroy as Alma
María Mercedes Coroy delivers a captivating performance as Alma, the enigmatic maid who becomes a central figure in the family’s haunting experiences. Coroy’s portrayal of Alma combines a sense of quiet strength with an underlying mystery, adding depth to her character and intensifying the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Coroy’s performance is crucial in linking the legend of La Llorona to the general’s past, and her presence brings a haunting quality to the film’s supernatural elements.
Julio Díaz as Enrique
Julio Díaz plays Enrique, the retired general, with a nuanced performance that captures the complexity of a man grappling with his past deeds. Díaz’s portrayal of Enrique is marked by a mix of arrogance and vulnerability, reflecting his internal struggle as he faces the consequences of his actions.
Díaz’s performance adds emotional weight to the film and enhances the exploration of guilt and redemption.
Sabrina de la Hoz as Valeria
Sabrina de la Hoz portrays Valeria, Enrique’s wife, who is deeply affected by the supernatural occurrences in their home. De la Hoz’s performance adds a layer of emotional depth and tension to the film, as Valeria grapples with her own fears and the impact of Enrique’s past.
The Supporting Cast
The supporting cast contributes effectively to the film’s tension and emotional resonance. The interactions between the family members and their encounters with La Llorona heighten the film’s suspense and contribute to the overall atmosphere of dread.
Direction and Cinematography: A Blend of Supernatural and Realism
Jayro Bustamante’s direction in La Llorona is characterized by its ability to intertwine supernatural horror with a poignant exploration of historical trauma. Bustamante’s approach to storytelling emphasizes the psychological and emotional impact of the supernatural events, creating a film that is both chilling and thought-provoking.
The cinematography, by Luis Armando Arteaga, plays a significant role in establishing the film’s eerie atmosphere. The use of shadow, lighting, and camera angles enhances the sense of unease and foreboding. The film’s visual style combines elements of traditional horror with a grounded portrayal of the family’s domestic life, creating a compelling and immersive experience.
Bustamante’s direction and Arteaga’s cinematography work together to create a film that is both visually striking and emotionally impactful, blending supernatural horror with a powerful narrative.
Themes: Guilt, Trauma, and the Supernatural
La Llorona explores several themes, including guilt, trauma, and the intersection of the supernatural with real-world issues. The film examines how historical atrocities and personal guilt can manifest in haunting and destructive ways.
The theme of guilt is central to the film, as the general’s past actions and the subsequent haunting by La Llorona serve as a metaphor for the unresolved traumas of the civil conflict. The film explores the idea that personal and collective guilt can have lasting and devastating consequences.
Additionally, La Llorona delves into the impact of historical trauma on individuals and families. The supernatural elements of the film are used to highlight the enduring nature of historical injustices and the difficulty of confronting past wrongs.
Critical Reception: A Unique and Thought-Provoking Horror Film
La Llorona received positive reviews from critics, who praised its originality and thematic depth. The film was noted for its effective blend of supernatural horror and social commentary, offering a fresh perspective on the classic legend.
Critics highlighted the strong performances, particularly by María Mercedes Coroy and Julio Díaz, and the film’s ability to create a suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative. The film’s exploration of guilt and historical trauma was also recognized as a powerful and impactful element.
Some critics found the film’s pacing to be slow, but overall, La Llorona was regarded as a unique and compelling entry in the horror genre that successfully combines chilling supernatural elements with a meaningful exploration of real-world issues.
Where to Watch La Llorona Online: Streaming and Rental Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching La Llorona online, several platforms offer the film for streaming or rental in the U.S. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
La Llorona is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99, while purchases are available for around $12.99 in HD. Amazon Prime provides a convenient platform for streaming on various devices.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 in HD on Apple TV (formerly iTunes). Apple’s platform offers a seamless experience across Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & YouTube
La Llorona is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies and YouTube. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are around $12.99. Both platforms are accessible on a wide range of devices, providing flexibility for viewers.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides La Llorona for rental and purchase, with rental prices beginning at $3.99 and purchases available for approximately $12.99. Vudu’s high-definition streaming options ensure a quality viewing experience.
5. Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Store offers digital rental and purchase options for La Llorona. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are available for around $12.99. The Microsoft Store supports various devices for easy access.
Conclusion: A Haunting and Thought-Provoking Film
La Llorona (2019) is a haunting and original film that combines supernatural horror with a powerful exploration of historical and personal trauma. With strong performances, effective direction, and striking cinematography, the film offers a unique and engaging cinematic experience.
Whether you’re a fan of supernatural horror or interested in a film that delves into meaningful themes of guilt and trauma, La Llorona provides a compelling and unsettling viewing experience. With multiple streaming and rental options available in the U.S., watching this film is both convenient and rewarding.
