'Cielo' Review: Bolivian Fable of Faith and Cruelty Soars with Magical Realism

Alberto Sciamma's "Cielo," a U.K.-Bolivian co-production, transcends its genre mashup origins to deliver a surprisingly poignant and visually stunning film. The Spanish-language magical realist tale follows a young girl's odyssey across Bolivia, grappling with themes of faith, loss, and the harsh realities of life. While not without its quirks, "Cielo" offers a captivating blend of ambition, aesthetic beauty, and bittersweet enchantment, marking a career high for the Barcelona-born, England-trained director.

A Journey of Loss and Hope

The film opens in a desolate Bolivian landscape, where young Santa (Fernanda Gutierrez Aranda) endures a life of hardship. Following a series of shocking events, including the deaths of her abusive father and complicit mother, Santa embarks on a pilgrimage to the sea, carrying her mother's preserved corpse in tow. Guided by visions and a swallowed fish acting as a spiritual advisor, she believes reaching the ocean is the only way to escape their misery and ascend to Heaven.

Bunuel Meets Bolivia: A Unique Blend of Tones

Sciamma masterfully balances the film's delicate tones, infusing the narrative with a Bunuel-esque sense of prankishness and doubt, while avoiding outright disdain for organized religion. The local padre (Luis Bredow) and police chief Gustavo (Fernando Arze Echalar) initially skeptical, become believers in Santa's cause after witnessing apparent miracles. Along her journey, Santa encounters a busload of female wrestlers, particularly the protective La Reina (Sasha Salaverry), who offer aid and camaraderie.

Expert Perspective: A Triumph of Tone and Visuals

"'Cielo' succeeds where many magical realist films falter," says Dr. Isabella Rodriguez, a film studies professor specializing in Latin American cinema at UCLA. "Sciamma avoids the pitfalls of sentimentality and instead crafts a narrative that is both deeply moving and intellectually stimulating. The film's success lies in its ability to ground the fantastical elements in the harsh realities of Bolivian life, creating a powerful commentary on faith, poverty, and the resilience of the human spirit."

A Visual Feast: Cinematography and Score

Alex Metcalfe's award-winning widescreen cinematography captures the vivid colors and breathtaking landscapes of Bolivia. From the arid Andean plains to the treacherous mountain roads and the bustling city of La Paz, each location is imbued with an otherworldly feel. The film's sonic landscape is equally captivating, with original scores by Cergio Prudencio and Dave Graham seamlessly blending Bolivian and English musical traditions.

Historical Context: Magical Realism in Latin American Cinema

The use of magical realism in "Cielo" builds upon a rich tradition in Latin American literature and cinema. "Magical realism allows filmmakers to explore complex social and political issues through a lens of fantasy and allegory," explains Dr. Rodriguez. "It's a way of giving voice to marginalized communities and challenging dominant narratives." Films like "Like Water for Chocolate" and "The Motorcycle Diaries" have successfully utilized magical realism to address themes of identity, oppression, and resistance.

Finding Heaven on Earth: A Bittersweet Conclusion

Despite its digressive narrative, "Cielo" maintains a sense of internal logic, ensuring that the audience remains invested in Santa's journey. The film's strength lies in its ability to create a world where miracles are possible, but the characters are still grounded in the realities of their lives. While the ending may be bittersweet, it ultimately affirms the power of faith, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

Director: Alberto Sciamma Starring: Fernanda Gutierrez Aranda, Juan Carlos Aduviri, Carla Arana, Luis Bredow, Fernando Arze Echalar, Sasha Salaverry Running Time: 108 minutes

"Cielo" is a film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. Its unique blend of magical realism, stunning visuals, and poignant storytelling makes it a must-see for fans of international cinema.