BLESS ME, ULTIMA - ANGEL OR WITCH?

Young man and his Grandmother (Miriam Colon) Courtesy Photo

BEYONDEXAMINER

BLESS ME, ULTIMA

RARE FILM BASED ON RODOLFO ANAYA’S BOOK

This touching movie is about persistence and about an Old Chicano Woman that can cure the sick. However, the people in the Barrio turn against the old Lady. They think that she is a Witch.

There are many emotional scenes between Antonio and his Grandmother. The relationship is full of Love between the young boy and his Grand Mom. I don’t believe that I have ever seen a young actor (Antonio) that brings such realism to the screen. Oh, and by the way – Miriam Colon (Grandma) as the Woman/Witch, is fantastic. I’ve got to get the Ingredients for myself.

Bless Me, is a tear jerker. The time and place is New Mexico, just after WWll – it’s a time that mixes faith, religion and priests in a baron land. Religion plays a huge role in the years of Antonio, the young boy who is wise beyond his years. Good and Evil is something that he is able to think things out at his young age. Meanwhile – Ultima (curandera)/Witch) cures people with her mystery herbs and magic. 

The compassion in “Bless Me, Ultima” is so magical that you will want to stay to read the Credits at the end. This film is expertly crafted. The Characters are poignant, searing and memorable.

RATING: Four Boxes of Popcorn!!!! (highest rating) –trademarked- 

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook and he also produced and hosted a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))