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Under a Spell

Name: Under a Spell
Director: Carlos Carrera
Released: 1999
Duration: 130 min

Representation Score

5.9/10

Fair

1999

Director

Carlos Carrera

Runtime

130 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Under a Spell succeeds as a period drama that deconstructs the rigid social mores of 1930s Yucatan. By focusing on a transgressive relationship, the film emphasizes emotional autonomy over traditional domestic life. Its non-linear structure explores the tension between youthful awakening and societal constraints, providing a nuanced look at regional identity while offering a refreshing departure from standard storytelling.

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Category Breakdown

Does Under a Spell have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film explores unconventional desires and relationships that challenge traditional norms. It prioritizes individual emotional truth over communal standards and traditional marriage.

How does Under a Spell portray gender?

Good

Felipa challenges traditional hierarchies through her intellectual and emotional strength. As a schoolteacher, her decision to flee challenges the period-specific stereotype of the submissive female.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Under a Spell?

Good

Set in the Yucatan, the film offers a localized, non-Anglo-centric perspective. It centers the narrative within a specific Mexican coastal identity, avoiding Western-centric homogeneity.

How does Under a Spell represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative frames its central scandal through nostalgia and longing, depicting traditional institutions as forces that can stifle individual freedom.

Does Under a Spell include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible evidence regarding the representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this work.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender hierarchies through Felipa's strong role.
Provides a localized, non-Anglo-centric Mexican perspective.
Highlights unconventional relationships that challenge traditional norms.
Criticizes rigid social structures and traditional domestic expectations.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
Limited detail regarding the ethnic composition of the supporting cast.

Official Synopsis

In the Yucatan coast of the thirties , Elisha, a boy of 13, is initiated into the art of love by Felipa , his schoolteacher. After discovering the relationship, Felipa runs away from the village , leaving Elisha mired in nostalgia. Forced to marry another woman and lead a routine life , recalling the years passed Eliseo romance with Felipa until ten years later, the woman returns , removing his wounds and changing forever the life of Elisha , his family and the whole town

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