Mexico's First Stop-Motion Film: A Dark Fairytale

Mexico's first feature-length stop-motion film, "I am Frankelda," is set to debut on Netflix on June 12, 2026. Brothers Arturo and Roy Ambriz, working from their Mexico City studio, Cinema Fantasma, have crafted a visually stunning tale of empathy and female empowerment. The film centers on Francisca, a gifted writer whose dark fantasies manifest in a world battling evil forces.

The production itself mirrors Frankelda's struggle, as the Ambriz brothers faced skepticism while developing their personal project. This personal journey of perseverance is deeply embedded in the narrative, offering a powerful message for aspiring artists to follow their dreams.

"I am Frankelda" showcases intricate stop-motion animation, inspired by 19th-century illustrator Gustave Doré. The brothers employed a blend of traditional hand-crafting and modern 3D printing to create detailed characters and sets, bringing a refined world of monsters to life with a renaissance-like aesthetic.

The film also incorporates original songs, drawing inspiration from classic musicals. The visual design emphasizes clear silhouettes and rich detail, balancing a potentially creepy aesthetic with expressive, cartoonish faces to create a unique and accessible viewing experience for audiences.