The Biopic on Leonora Carrington
Directed by Thor Klein and Lena Vurma, “Leonora in The Morning Light” delves into the life and work of surrealist painter and sculptor Leonora Carrington, blending historical research, artistic sensitivity, and respect for her surrealist legacy. The film is now playing in theaters.
Key Settings and Symbols
“Leonora in The Morning Light” features key settings such as Las Pozas in Xilitla and symbols like the hyena and horse, intertwining art, spirituality, and resilience to portray the artist’s complexity. The film, starring Olivia Vinall, celebrates the power of reinvention and the value of starting anew.
Leonora Carrington: A Surrealist Pioneer
Leonora Carrington, a prominent surrealist artist, is the subject of this biopic. Born in England and later settling in Mexico, she became one of the most important surrealist artists in history. Based on Elena Poniatowska’s novel of the same name, the film traces her life from youthful rebellion to artistic prominence.
The Filmmakers’ Vision
Thor Klein, one of the directors, explains that the film’s inspiration came from Carrington’s book: “An image in southern France where her inner world collapsed alongside the outer world struck me as deeply cinematic.” He aimed to capture this atmosphere of fragmentation and renewal throughout the film.
Key Locations: Las Pozas, Xilitla
Las Pozas in Xilitla, a surrealist garden built by Edward James, served as an essential setting. Entering this space felt like stepping into one of Carrington’s paintings, leading the filmmakers to begin and end the film there, immersing viewers in a surrealist tableau.
The Hyena and the Horse: Symbols of Resilience
The directors highlight two symbols in the film: the hyena and the horse. The hyena, an undomesticated animal with unconventional anatomy, represents Carrington’s rebellious spirit. In contrast, the horse symbolizes her calmer side. Both coexist in her work and life.
The Artistic Dialogue: Carrington and Remedios Varo
The film portrays Carrington’s friendship with Remedios Varo not just as an emotional bond but also a creative dialogue. Both artists shared an interest in the hidden and spiritual, expressing this quest through their work.
The Challenges of Co-direction
Klein and Vurma, who have worked together since university, divided responsibilities: one directed actors while the other oversaw the monitor. They emphasized their shared vision as the key to their successful collaboration.
Olivia Vinall: A Magnetic Portrayal
After auditions in London during the pandemic, British actress Olivia Vinall was chosen to embody Carrington. Her magnetic presence, voice, and demeanor made her the ideal choice. Vinall’s pregnancy added depth to her portrayal, mirroring Carrington’s own motherhood.
Values that Defined Leonora Carrington
The filmmakers agree that courage was central to Carrington’s character. The film emphasizes resilience and new beginnings, showcasing her defiance and the courage to reinvent herself amid adversity.
Film Details
- Original Title: Leonora in The Morning Light
- Genre: Biopic
- Duration: 103 minutes
- Country: Mexico, Germany, Romania, and the United Kingdom
- Year: 2025
- Language: English / Spanish
- Direction: Thor Klein, Lena Vurma
- Screenplay: Thor Klein, Lena Vurma
- Production: Lena Vurma, Paul Zischler, Mónica Moreno, Alejandra Malvido, James Heath
- Producing Companies: Piano Producciones Cinematográficas S.A.P.I de C.V, Vurma Lena Simone, Meli Melo Cultura S.A. de C.V, Chavezmontes Jato Velandia Julio, Digital Cube S.R.L., Sterian Laura-Gabriele, Davin Lawrence Stephen, Dragonfly Films GMBH
- Cinematography: Tudor Vladimir Panduru
- Editing: Matthieu Taponier
- Sound Design: Adrian Lo
- Music: Maria Portugal
- Cast: Olivia Vinall, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Alexander Scheer, Ryan Gage, Istvan Teglas, Luis Gerardo Méndez, Yoshira Escárrega
