Movie Review: Las Tres Sisters
Starring Marta Méndez Cross, Virginia Novello, and Valeria Maldonado, Las Tres Sisters is a dramedy that follows three Mexican-American sisters on an adventure through Mexico as they embark on a traditional pilgrimage. Following our YouTube Exclusive interview with them, we had the pleasure of watching the film and here are our thoughts.
While the premise suggests a lighthearted road trip filled with humorous mishaps, Las Tres Sisters surprises with its emotional depth, offering several poignant moments that make it much more than just a comedy. The movie not only provides an entertaining and emotional journey but also offers a window into the rich cultural traditions and landscapes of Mexico. With humor, heart, and a strong connection to heritage, Las Tres Sisters invites audiences to experience a story that is as touching as it is engaging.
One of the most unexpected aspects of the film is its balance between humor and truly heartbraking moments. While we anticipated a fun, comedic journey, there were several deeply emotional scenes that added complexity to the story. The film explores themes of sisterhood, family history, and personal growth, making it a more layered experience than we initially expected.
However, not all elements of the story worked seamlessly. Some of the challenges the sisters face felt a bit forced, such as a scene in which they need to escape from a hospital. Although the scene works for comedic purposes, the urgency of their escape seemed unnecessary, as it felt like they could have simply walked out without much trouble. These moments slightly weakened the narrative, making certain obstacles feel contrived rather than organic.
That being said, the strongest aspect of Las Tres Sisters is undoubtedly the performances of its three lead actresses. Their real-life friendship translates beautifully on screen, resulting in genuine chemistry that makes their sisterly bond feel authentic. Each character is distinct and well-developed, making it easy to connect with and differentiate them. Their performances elevate the film, bringing warmth and charm to even the more predictable or exaggerated moments. With them is also Cristo Fernández, whose natural energy adds a layer of gentleness and humor, making him a joy to watch.
Another standout element of the film is the way Mexico itself becomes almost like another character. The movie is rich with references to traditional Mexican practices, from folk medicine and vibrant food to the deeply rooted traditions of Día de los Muertos and religious faith. These cultural elements add an extra layer of authenticity and depth, making the journey feel immersive and meaningful. The filmmakers did an excellent job of weaving these traditions into the story naturally, further emphasizing the sisters' connection to their heritage.
Additionally, the cinematography of Las Tres Sisters beautifully showcases Mexico’s stunning landscapes, from bustling city streets to serene countryside vistas. The vibrant colors and sweeping shots immerse the audience in the sisters' journey, making the setting feel alive and integral to the film’s emotional depth. The careful attention to detail in capturing Mexico’s natural beauty and cultural richness enhances the film’s authenticity and visual appeal, further drawing viewers into the story.
Overall, Las Tres Sisters is an engaging film that offers both laughter and heartfelt moments. While some plot points may feel forced, the film's emotional core and the outstanding performances of its leads make it a worthwhile watch. The creators have truly succeeded in crafting a comedy with heart, just as they intended, making this a film that resonates beyond its humor. If you enjoy stories about family, cultural heritage, and personal journeys, this film is definitely worth your time.
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More about Marta Méndez Cross
Marta is an actress, writer and director based in Los Angeles, California. After graduating from the University of Texas, Marta landed leading roles in the feature films “Side FX” ( Amber Heard) and “Red Ridge” ( Louis Herthum). Her first theatrical debut was in “Believe In Me” (Jeffrey Donovan) and "The Bounce Back" (Shemar Moore). Her TV career skyrocketed on every network (Showtime, NBC, CBS, ABC, Comedy Central, Lifetime and more). Her most notable role was opposite Meryl Streep’s daughter, Mami Gummer, on ABC'S "Off The Map" and her starring role as Olivia for the Lifetime Network series “Life with Olivia”. Most recently her role as Krista on Hallmark Network’s “Hopeless Romantic” parlayed into a writing contract. She is currently writing Hallmark's first Latinx Christmas Drama “Feliz Navidad”.
Marta starred and produced the feature film The Land Of Shadowed Sand winning an Audience Award at the Austin Film Festival. Her directorial debut was with the award winning short Sober based on real life events and, after her nomination at the Hollyshorts Film Fest, she is set to direct the short film I CHILD. Marta is a board member for the organization Enrichment Works that provides young people with what is often their first experience of a live theatrical performance to inspire learning. She began as a performer with the organization 12 years ago in their show "Sor Juana". She values the program and is honored to be a part of continuing its important work. She has also volunteered at the Frida Kahlo theater in East Los Angeles teaching young Latinx actors.
More about Valeria Maldonado
Valeria was born in San Diego, CA and grew up in Queretaro, Mexico. As a half Mexican half American actress, she is known for her work on the Academy Award winning film COCO and has appeared on TV shows such as Better Things, NCIS, Castle, Casual, and Nicky, Ricky Dicky and Dawn, as well as Single by 30. Valeria has also recurred on Jimmy Kimmel Live doing sketch comedy and starred opposite William Moseley in Saving Paradise. Valeria also has a career in Mexico, acting in feature films such as En Las Buenas y En Las Malas, Locos por la Herencia, Así es la Suerte, Travesía del Desierto, El Efecto Tequila and Joe Rendon’s film Aquellos Ojos Verdes that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival to rave reviews. Valeria is set to direct the upcoming short film DONNA.
More about Virginia Novello
Mexican-Italian actress, writer, director. Born and raised in Guadalajara Mexico. Virginia's passion for filmmaking started young. At 19 she came to L.A to learn all of the aspects of this industry. Since then she has written, and produced several short films, commercials, plays as well as pilots for VIACOM. She directed the short doc "Sueños Rotos" which aired during the 2014 World Cup in Mexico and Latin America. Her short film "Gone" is being used as a teaching tool for sexual abuse at Fundacion PAS. As an actor she has played such characters as Frida Khalo, Bertha and the Lady (Tennessee Williams), Simone in "The Persecution and Murder of Jean-Paul Marat" and Marjorie in "Extremities." She lives in Los Angeles, California and has worked on independent projects and films such as: "Maintenance required", "Clear lake", "La Pastisseria", "Motel" and "Gone".