About Real Women Have Curves

"Real Women Have Curves" is an empowering HBO film released in 2002 and directed by Patricia Cardoso. Adapted from the play by Josefina Lopez, the movie tells an authentic story of a first-generation Mexican-American girl and her coming of age journey

The plot focuses on Ana Garcia, an 18-year-old Mexican American young woman living in East Los Angeles. She's just graduated high school and dreams of going to college to escape the dreariness of her family home, and most notably, her overbearing mother. But as her teacher encourages her to apply to Columbia University, Ana's mother, Carmen, insists that she assist in the family dressmaking business, highlighting the cultural clash between Ana's aspirations and her family's traditional values.

Making / Production

"Real Women Have Curves" was produced by George LaVoo (also one of the writers) and Effie T. Brown, whereas the executive producer was Marilyn R. Atlas. This film starkly captures the harsh realities and beauty of working-class East LA and the slice of life that exists within a small garment factory.

Actors

• America Ferrera as Ana Garcia: The lead of the movie, America Ferrera gave a charming, natural and truly powerful performance as Ana, a young woman trying to break free from cultural boundaries.
• Lupe Ontiveros as Carmen Garcia: Lupe brilliantly played the role of Ana's domineering mother, who fiercely holds on to her cultural traditions regardless of the cost.
• Ingrid Oliu as Estela Garcia: Ingrid played Ana's older sister and owner of the factory. She depicted a woman torn between retaining her family's cultural narrative and fighting for her sister's aspirations.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is based on a play by screenwriter Josefina López, which was inspired by her own personal experiences as a Mexican-American woman in Los Angeles.
• The film marked America Ferrera's film debut and she was just 18 during its production.
• The film is noted for its bold on-screen depiction of female body positivity, which was ahead of its time in 2002.

Awards

"Real Women Have Curves" was widely recognized and won several awards, including the Sundance Film Festival Audience Award for Dramatic Filmmaking and the Special Jury Prize for Actor America Ferrera and Lupe Ontiveros. The movie has been highly praised for its authentic representation, powerful storytelling, and incredible acting talent.

Quotes

• "In this, you're perfect." - Ana
• "We're real women, and real women have curves." - Ana
• "You know, Miss, you’re not the only one with dreams." - Carmen

Music and Soundtrack

• Music and original score for the movie was composed by Heitor Pereira.
• The film features diverse music that underscores the blend of cultures in East LA, incorporating traditional Mexican music with contemporary tones.
• Highly expressive in nature, the music perfectly complements the movie's tone and the journey of its central character.