Watch Maria Lionza

Maria Lionza is a film that explores the intersection between ancient spirituality and modern-day civilization, set deep in the heart of the Venezuelan jungle. The film follows the journey of Isabela, a young woman who is torn between her desire to leave her traditional legacy behind and seek a life of modernity outside of her small village, and her responsibility to carry on the traditions of her family; traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries.

As Isabela's internal conflict escalates, she is forced to confront her fears and innermost desires in order to come to terms with her identity and the role she will play in her people's future. The movie captures the spirit of the Venezuelan people, who are a mix of various cultures and traditions, and showcases the struggle of having to choose between the old and the new ways of life.

The plot of the movie is centered around the traditional folkloric practice of "La Diosa Maria Lionza," a venerated entity in Venezuelan culture, and how Isabela becomes the chosen one to carry out the rituals required to summon her. The movie is more of a thriller, with elements of horror, than a straight-forward drama or documentary. Indeed, the film is billed as a supernatural horror, with the plot invoking the dark and mystic aspects of the Maria Lionza ritual.

The main character, Isabela, is played by the talented Ruddy Rodriguez. She does a magnificent job of portraying a young woman torn between her cultural identity and her yearning for modernity. The supporting cast includes Luis Jose Santander, who plays the village chief, and Ana Beatriz Osorio, who portrays Isabela's sister. Both provide strong performances, contributing to the overall theme of the story.

The movie is directed by Vanessa Di Quattro and co-written with Juan Carlos Garcia. Together, they make a formidable pair, with Di Quattro's direction being spot on and Garcia's script being tightly written. The film's visuals are stunning, capturing the lush landscapes of Venezuela and its people's rich traditions. The use of practical effects is exquisite, and the sound design creates an atmosphere that heightens the suspense of the story.

As Isabela delves deeper into the mystic world of Maria Lionza, the film takes on a darker tone. It becomes apparent that the ancient ritual has powers beyond what she had anticipated, and she realizes the true cost of her choice. The consequences of her actions have far-reaching ramifications, and the only way to break the curse is to summon Maria Lionza and offer her a sacrifice; a sacrifice that Isabela must make herself. The climax of the movie is intense, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats, eager to see the fate of the main character.

Overall, Maria Lionza is a visually stunning and emotionally evocative horror film that offers a window into the Venezuelan culture while exploring universal themes of identity, heritage, and the struggle between the old and the new. With strong performances from the cast, exceptional production design, and a thrilling script, this movie is a must-see for anyone looking for a deep dive into the supernatural folklore of one of the oldest cultures in the world.