Maria Full of Grace (HBO) - 2004

About Maria Full of Grace (HBO)

Maria Full of Grace is a powerful, gripping, and deeply moving drama film that tells the story of Maria, a seventeen-year-old girl from Columbia. The film provides a nuanced and poignant exploration of the harrowing journey she embarks on in becoming a drug mule, demonstrating human resilience in face of great adversity.

Making / Production

The film is directed by Joshua Marston, who impeccably portrays the desperation and struggles that drive Maria to risk her life for a ticket out of poverty. The production teams in both Columbia and the U.S. managed to create an authentic atmosphere that highlighted the stark contrast between Maria's humble beginnings and the dangerous world she subsequently becomes entangled in.

Actors

• Catalina Sandino Moreno: Plays the main character, Maria. Moreno's performance evokes a palpable sense of fear and vulnerability, endearing audiences to her character's plight.
• Guilied Lopez: Played the role of Lucy, a seasoned mule who shows Maria the ropes. Lopez's performance is heartrending and unforgettable.
• Orlando Tobón: As Don Fernando, Tobón serves as a voice of reason and safety for Maria once she reaches US soil.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Catalina Sandino Moreno was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the film, making her the first Colombian and third Hispanic actress to receive this honor.
• Director Joshua Marston spent considerable time in Colombia and worked closely with local actors to inform his script and overall vision of the film.

Awards

"Maria Full of Grace" has received various accolades, showcasing its worldwide critical acclaim. The film won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. Also, Catalina Sandino Moreno received a much-deserved Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards.

Quotes

• "You have opportunity there in America?" - Maria
• "I don't like to owe anything to anyone." - Maria
• "We're deciding it's more dangerous to be hungry." - Lucy

Music/Soundtrack

• Mateo Laboriel - Composed the score, perfectly capturing the tension, despair, and brief moments of hope throughout Maria's journey.
• El Pescador - A traditional cumbia song that is played during one of the film's pivotal moments.