If you are easily embarrassed, exceedingly modest, or overly squeamish, do not bother with this film, because Frida was none of these things. As portrayed in this film, Frida Kahlo is a passionate, cheeky, brash, assertive, and driven young woman. Her mettle gleams from her dark eyes, and her carefree smile echoes in the smiles of those around her. She is vital, in complete control of her life. She is attractive, witty, and seemingly leads an idyllic life. Then tragedy strikes.

From that pivotal moment on, Frida's life changes, but not her spirit. You can see the determined spark still in her eyes as she faces her pain and suffering. She is never helpless. Her spirit shines through in everything, from the butterflies she draws on her cast, to the way she tries to make the best of her every situation, to dulling her pain in alcohol and paint.

The film is lavish and its scale is broad, but you also get a sense of intimacy. You see through Frida's eyes, how her world changes through her relationship with her family, her husband, and the others she encounters on her fantastic journey. The colours assail your senses, and the music and atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for this rousing tale. Frida is not a classical artist. Her work, at times, borders on the obscene for some. However, she is always surprising you with the depth of thought she demonstrates. Her paintings reflect herself, and she is never afraid to look in the mirror and show the world what she sees. If only we all could be that honest with ourselves, with our glories and our failings.

The one thing that never changes throughout Frida's life is her overriding passion and sensuality. She is not afraid to give in to the sexual power that thrums from her very fingertips. Moreover, she is not afraid to do things on her own and she brazenly displays everything she feels on canvas, unembarrassed by her own thoughts, desires, or sensations.

The movie itself is spectacular, and it really draws you in. There are many sexual scenes, so if that is not your thing, be warned. Julie Taymor has gone to great lengths here; there is much to savour. Her other notable film, the glorious Titus, is similar in effect to Frida. They are both sprawling, emotional films with ties to politics and relationships.

There are several notable cameos, including Ashley Judd, Antonio Banderas, and Edward Norton. Primarily, there is Geoffery Rush as Leon Trotsky. His accent is a bit distracting, but he is mesmerising in this small role. The manner in which things develop between him and Frida is completely undeniable.

Alfred Molina, as Frida's womanising, Communist, artist husband, Diego, shines in his role. He seems to fit the part well, and he plays it to the hilt. He is unabashed about his own sexuality, bedding his models whenever opportunity arises, and opportunity always arises. Frida knows this from the start, knows that he will not change, even for her, and yet she marries him anyway. Diego gives the pretence of changing, even to the point of lying to Frida. That is what hurt her the most, because she valued honesty in all things.

Honesty is what Taymor and Hayek give us in this film. Never flinching, consistently straight, sometimes nightmarish, and always inspiring, Frida gives us all a chance to expand our horizons.

Overall, this film is stirring to the blood and creative impulses. I was totally convinced by Frida's world as created by Taymor, and the presentation of her life was easily accepted by those familiar, and not familiar, with Frida's work alike. It intrigued me enough to make me consider finding the book that inspired the movie, if only to find out how historically accurate the events portrayed are. You can find it here, at www.amazon.com

Rating: 4 Faeries
Directed by: Julie Taymor
Starring:Salma Hayek, Alfred Molina, Geoffrey Rush, Ashley Judd, Antonio Banderas, Edward Norton