Beautiful, FL (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Beautiful, FL is a poignant film that captures the essence of community and the bittersweet nature of loss. Directed by Gabriela Ortega, the film tells the story of a teenage girl determined to honour her late Tia Abuela by winning an ice cream competition with a special flavour. The narrative unfol ... Show more >> Beautiful, FL is a poignant film that captures the essence of community and the bittersweet nature of loss. Directed by Gabriela Ortega, the film tells the story of a teenage girl determined to honour her late Tia Abuela by winning an ice cream competition with a special flavour. The narrative unfolds in a trailer park setting, where the protagonist finds support from her eclectic neighbours. The performances are heartfelt, particularly from the lead, who embodies the character's determination and vulnerability. Ortega’s direction is commendable, balancing light-hearted moments with deeper emotional undercurrents. The film’s exploration of cultural heritage and the significance of family traditions adds depth, making it resonate with a diverse audience. Overall, Beautiful, FL is a delightful coming-of-age story that leaves a lasting impression. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

Beautiful, FL is a sweet and charming film that serves up a generous scoop of feel-good vibes. Following a teen girl on her quest to create the perfect ice cream flavour in memory of her Tia Abuela, it’s hard not to feel the warmth radiating from the screen. The quirky trailer park community adds a ... Show more >> Beautiful, FL is a sweet and charming film that serves up a generous scoop of feel-good vibes. Following a teen girl on her quest to create the perfect ice cream flavour in memory of her Tia Abuela, it’s hard not to feel the warmth radiating from the screen. The quirky trailer park community adds a delightful flavour of its own, with endearing characters that bring both humour and heart to the story. While the plot follows a familiar path, it’s the emotional beats that really shine, especially the moments that highlight the importance of family and tradition. It’s not without its clichés, but the film manages to keep the audience engaged with its relatable themes and vibrant visuals. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting that celebrates community and creativity, Beautiful, FL is worth a watch. Show less