The Curse of La Llorona (2019) – Movie Review
Introduction
“The Curse of La Llorona,” directed by Michael Chaves, is a 2019 horror film that draws from the Mexican folklore of La Llorona, the Weeping Woman. As part of “The Conjuring” universe, the film features Linda Cardellini, Raymond Cruz, and Marisol Ramirez. This review explores the film’s plot, performances, direction, and where you can stream it in the USA.
Plot Summary
Set in 1973 Los Angeles, the film follows Anna Tate-Garcia (Linda Cardellini), a social worker and widow, who becomes entangled in a supernatural horror when she investigates the case of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment. Anna discovers that the spirit of La Llorona, who drowned her own children in a fit of madness, is now targeting her children. With the help of a former priest turned shaman (Raymond Cruz), Anna fights to protect her family from the malevolent spirit.
Performances
Linda Cardellini delivers a strong performance as Anna, bringing a sense of urgency and empathy to her role as a protective mother. Raymond Cruz, as the unconventional shaman Rafael Olvera, adds a unique flavor to the film with his grounded and slightly humorous take on the paranormal expert. Marisol Ramirez’s portrayal of La Llorona is suitably menacing, though the character’s depth is limited by the script.
Direction and Cinematography
Michael Chaves, in his directorial debut, adopts a style reminiscent of James Wan, utilizing dark interiors and eerie set pieces to build suspense. While Chaves effectively uses visual and atmospheric elements to create a spooky ambiance, the film lacks the distinctive aged feel of earlier entries in “The Conjuring” series. The cinematography captures the tension well but falls short of delivering genuinely chilling moments.
Themes and Analysis
The film explores themes of motherhood, grief, and cultural folklore. It attempts to integrate the rich background of La Llorona’s legend into a modern horror narrative. However, the film has been critiqued for its superficial treatment of cultural elements, with the Spanish language often used to signify the “other” rather than adding to the depth of the story.
Reception
“The Curse of La Llorona” received mixed reviews from critics. It was praised for its strong performances and some effective jump scares but criticized for its lack of originality and cultural depth. The film’s reliance on familiar horror tropes and a predictable plot left many viewers wanting more from a story rooted in such a rich folklore tradition.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the USA, “The Curse of La Llorona” is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Offers rental and purchase options.
- Google Play Movies: Can be rented or purchased.
- Vudu: Available for rental and purchase.
Conclusion
“The Curse of La Llorona” is a competent addition to “The Conjuring” universe, offering some effective scares and strong performances. However, its lack of cultural depth and originality may leave some viewers disappointed. For fans of supernatural horror, it provides a decent, albeit familiar, viewing experience.
To watch “The Curse of La Llorona,” check out the streaming options mentioned and delve into this supernatural thriller.
