A Visual Journey Between Two Worlds

Read Time:3 Minute, 46 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Gabriela
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Genre: Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 16m
Director(s): Evelyn Lorena
Writer(s): Evelyn Lorena
Cast: Evelyn Lorena, María Telón, Viktor White
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 REGARD – Saguenay International Short Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Within a swift 16-minute narrative, Evelyn Lorena's GABRIELA delves into the dreams and difficulties of a young Guatemalan immigrant in North Carolina, drawing the audience into a stark portrayal of her struggle between ambition and societal limitations. It’s incredible what can be done in a short film if done correctly; while I wanted more of this story, I still feel that a perfect exploration of this narrative left me with a deep understanding of her story.

The film chronicles the life of Gabriela (Evelyn Lorena), a character torn between her aspirations to overcome and achieve her best in competitive swimming and the harsh realities of being an undocumented immigrant. The film, written and directed by Lorena, depicts this young woman's quest as a personal journey and a broader social commentary.

Set against the backdrop of North Carolina, the film juxtaposes these inviting landscapes with the imposing gates of a prestigious country club. This contrast is a visual metaphor for the opportunities that remain out of Gabriela's reach, spotlighting the societal barriers that entangle her ambitions.

The narrative centers on Gabriela's relationships, particularly with Stefan (Viktor White,) a young Ukrainian who represents both a source of solace and complexity in her life. Their budding romance, portrayed with an earnest blend of hope and practicality, mirrors the more significant obstacles Gabriela confronts, enriching the film's narrative by showcasing how intimate bonds can empower and challenge.

Lorena delivers a performance brimming with nuance and authenticity. Her multiple hats as writer, director, and protagonist embody the resilience necessary to navigate through a story of societal challenges. Each scene is meticulously crafted, with dialogue that resonates with sincerity, propelling the film's themes of identity and aspiration.

Visually, GABRIELA is a feast for the eyes in its relatively short runtime. The cinematography cleverly employs the scenic beauty of North Carolina to contrast the stark, exclusionary confines of the country club. These visual elements amplify the narrative’s emotional resonance, bringing immediacy to Gabriela's experiences and making her world palpable to viewers. So much can be said without dialogue between the scene and its surroundings.

Lorena’s script is subtly potent, eschewing preachiness for a profound exploration of the immigrant experience. The screenplay’s strength lies in its ability to weave significant social issues into the fabric of Gabriela’s personal story, transitioning smoothly from individual to universal themes. I saw a mention of some of the stereotypical supporting characters in another review, and I feel that person missed the point; the reality is that those stereotypes exist all too often,

GABRIELA is more than just a slice of one individual's life; it's a poignant reflection on the broader story of immigrant challenges, particularly those faced by undocumented individuals often relegated to the margins of society. The film balances the personal with the political, offering an intimate and impactful narrative. Lorena’s storytelling and compelling cinematic execution make this short film a critical watch, enriching the discourse on immigration and identity with its heartfelt narrative and striking visuals.

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[photo courtesy of NOUVELLE ENTERTAINMENT, THE BLENDED FUTURE PROJECT]

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