Watch Lingua Franca

The movie "Lingua Franca" from 2019 is a thoughtful and emotional drama that explores the experiences of an undocumented trans woman named Olivia, played by the film's writer and director, Isabel Sandoval. Olivia works as a caregiver for an elderly woman named Olga, played by Lynn Cohen, in Brighton Beach, New York. Olivia spends most of her days caring for Olga, teaching Filipino to Russian immigrants, and trying to find a way to legalize her status in the United States. The film reveals the challenges that Olivia faces as a marginalized member of society, particularly in a political climate that has become increasingly hostile towards immigrants, transgender individuals, and people of color.

One of the most striking aspects of "Lingua Franca" is its focus on the interior life of the protagonist, Olivia. The film is shot primarily from Olivia's perspective, and there are many moments in which the camera lingers on her face, allowing the audience to witness the subtleties of her emotions. Sandoval's nuanced portrayal of Olivia's struggle to survive in a world that doesn't accept her lends the film a raw and unflinching quality. Olivia's trauma is never sensationalized or exploited, but rather presented with a quiet dignity that reflects the character's own strength and resilience.

Another notable aspect of the film is its exploration of the complex relationships between Olga, Olivia, and Olga's grandson Alex, played by Eamon Farren. Although the three characters come from vastly different backgrounds, they find themselves united by their shared experience of being outsiders in American society. Olga, who is Jewish and lived through the Holocaust, serves as a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of persecution. Alex, who is struggling with his own personal demons, finds a sense of purpose in helping Olivia navigate the complicated bureaucracy of immigration law. Through their interactions with one another, the characters discover a sense of empathy and compassion that transcends their differences.

Despite its heavy subject matter, "Lingua Franca" also has moments of humor and tenderness. One of the most memorable scenes in the film involves Olivia teaching Alex how to cook Filipino food. The scene is a testament to the film's ability to find joy and beauty in even the most difficult situations. It also highlights the cultural exchange that takes place between the characters, revealing the ways in which language and food can serve as bridges between disparate communities.

Overall, "Lingua Franca" is a powerful and moving film that offers a searing portrait of life on the margins of American society. Sandoval's poignant portrayal of Olivia's journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Through its exploration of themes such as immigration, transgender identity, and intergenerational trauma, the film offers a window into the struggles faced by many Americans today. With its subtle, empathetic approach to storytelling, "Lingua Franca" is a film that is sure to resonate with audiences around the world.

Lingua Franca is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 61.