Watch Charm School

Charm School is a 2007 coming-of-age drama film directed by Fernando Sarinana and starring Martha Higareda, Blanca Guerra, and Camila Sodi. The film explores the complex relationships between three generations of women in a Mexican family, as they navigate their way through love, loss, betrayal, and self-discovery. At the center of the story is the young and impulsive Catalina Guzman (Martha Higareda), a rebellious teenager who is sent to live with her grandmother, Abuela (Blanca Guerra), after her parents' divorce. Abuela runs a charm school, where she teaches young women how to dress, behave, and speak like proper ladies. Catalina initially resents being forced to attend the school, but gradually begins to appreciate the lessons and discipline it offers.

Meanwhile, Catalina's mother, Julieta (Camila Sodi), struggles to maintain her own sense of identity in the face of personal and professional setbacks. She is a successful architect who is betrayed by her business partner and lover, leaving her financially and emotionally devastated. To make matters worse, Julieta's own mother seems more interested in her granddaughter's progress at charm school than in her own daughter's struggles.

As the three women navigate their own personal journeys, they find themselves drawn together by shared experiences of heartbreak and transformation. Abuela, despite her strict and traditional ways, reveals a deep sense of compassion and wisdom that helps her granddaughter navigate the challenges of growing up. Julieta, while initially distant and aloof, slowly begins to relate to her daughter on a more personal level, sharing her own vulnerability and pain.

The film is marked by its vivid depictions of Mexican culture and tradition, from the colorful costumes and festive celebrations to the deep familial bonds and traditional gender roles. It also touches on a number of universal themes, such as the challenges of identity and self-discovery, the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Overall, Charm School is a heartfelt and engaging film that offers a poignant and insightful look at the experiences of women in a traditional Mexican family. With its strong performances, rich cultural details, and relatable themes, it is a film that will resonate with viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

Charm School is a 2007 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.