Clara Sola

In a remote Costa Rican village, Clara, a shy and introverted young woman, lives under the oppressive control of her devout mother. Clara possesses a unique spiritual connection, experiencing visions and communing with nature. When her younger sister's pregnancy disrupts the family's rigid order, Clara embarks on a journey of self-discovery, challenging her inhibitions and embracing her own mystical power.

Clara Sola received widespread critical acclaim for its unique blend of magical realism, poignant storytelling, and powerful performances. Critics lauded director Nathalie Álvarez Mesen's sensitive portrayal of a young woman's awakening and her nuanced exploration of faith, repression, and liberation.

• Praised for its atmospheric direction and ethereal visual style.

• Lauded for Wendy Chinchilla Araya's captivating and subtle performance.

• Commended for its sensitive exploration of female agency and spiritual awakening.

Google audience: Audiences were deeply moved by Clara's journey, appreciating the film's meditative pace and its beautiful depiction of nature. Many highlighted the emotional resonance of Clara's character arc and the film's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection.

Screened in the Directors' Fortnight section at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Europa Cinemas Label award. Nominated for Best Film at the 2022 Guldbagge Awards (Sweden's national film awards).

The film was inspired by director Nathalie Álvarez Mesen's observations of women in her native Costa Rica and her own childhood experiences with a spiritual grandmother.