All young Francisca Imelda (Mireya Mendoza) wants to be when she grows up is a famous horror author. Adopting the male pseudonym “Frankelda,” she writes stories about the Topus Terrenus, a fantastical realm populated by magical creatures — and unknown dangers. Francisca soon discovers that the Topus Terrenus actually exists, and she’s soon transported into it. Once there, a handsome prince, Herneval (Arturo Mercado Jr.), needs her help to save his land. Sensing an opportunity for adventure, not to mention inspiration for her next novel, Francisca agrees to help him save his land.
I Am Frankelda is the latest stop-motion animated adventure from Netflix, which released Guillermo del Toro’s similar Pinocchio a few years ago. Del Toro served as a mentor to Frankelda’s directors Arturo and Roy Ambriz, who share his love for weird beasts, strong heroines and Mexican culture. The result is a breathtakingly beautiful fantasy that successfully transports you to another dimension filled with sights you’ve never seen before. The movie currently holds a 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, which should tell you how good it is. Don’t miss it.
