Watch Princesas Rojas

Princesas Rojas is a drama film released in 2013, directed by Laura Astorga. The movie tells the story of two young women in Costa Rica whose worlds collide in unexpected ways. The first protagonist, Adila (played by Valeria Conejo), is a teenage girl from an indigenous community, whose father is a leader of the anti-mining resistance movement. She comes to San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, to study and to work in a fast food restaurant. Adila is a quiet and reserved girl, who becomes gradually fascinated with the city and the opportunities it presents.

The second protagonist, Agatha (played by Aura Dinarte), is a rebellious teenager attending a private Catholic school. Agatha is dealing with the recent separation of her parents and her own sexual awakening. She is a talented artist and interested in social justice issues, attending protests and painting politically charged graffiti around the city.

Adila and Agatha meet by chance on a bus, and their lives become intertwined. Although at first they seem to have nothing in common, they soon discover that they each have something to teach the other. Adila introduces Agatha to her indigenous culture, to the beauty of the natural world, and to a new understanding of struggle and resistance. Agatha, in turn, teaches Adila how to assert herself, how to be independent and assertive, and how to navigate the complexities of urban life.

As they become closer, their differences and similarities become more apparent. Adila is more reserved and quiet, while Agatha is more outgoing and assertive. But both are struggling with issues of identity, family, and politics. For Adila, the fight against mining companies represents a fight for her ancestral land and culture. For Agatha, the fight is a more personal one, as she grapples with the deep pain of her parents’ separation and her own burgeoning sexuality.

Together, they navigate the complex terrain of Costa Rican society, learning from each other and discovering new ways of existing in the world. They each have their own individual struggles and triumphs, but the film is ultimately a celebration of the power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity.

Princesas Rojas is a powerful and moving film that touches on themes of identity, culture, politics, and the environment. It is a story of two young women who are facing their own challenges, but who find strength and support in each other. The film is beautifully shot and acted, capturing the complexities and contradictions of modern-day Costa Rica. It is a must-see for anyone interested in stories of empowerment and resilience in the face of adversity.