Shattered images: A textual analysis of Frida Kahlo

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 177-190)As Latinos are the largest and fastest growing minority in the Unites States, it is critical to address how the often rocky relationship between the U.S. and Mexico continues to be played out through images of Latinas and Latinos in film. By performing a textual analysis of the 2002 Julie Taymor film Frida, I seek to understand the complex ways in which the images presented in the media reflect, construct and contest normalized constructions of gender, race and U.S.-Mexico relations. The film, Frida, was celebrated as a cultural triumph at the time of its release and was considered a financial success, having recouped the cost of both production and promotion in addition to turning a profit. Using a feminist and cultural studies approach, I analyze the transformation of Frida Kahlo from socialist, gender defying, poly-amorous artist to icon of Mexican culture on the big screen