Maria Felix (1914-2002) left her mark on Mexican and European film as well as fashion, art and jewellery design. Cartier created one-of-a-kind pieces; Leonora Carrington and Diego Rivera painted portraits; Carlos Fuentes wrote a play; Agustin Lara, a bestselling song. But she was nobody's muse. Maria Felix (1914-2002) left her mark on Mexican and European film as well as fashion, art and jewellery design. Cartier created one-of-a-kind pieces; Leonora Carrington and Diego Rivera painted portraits; Carlos Fuentes wrote a play; Agustin Lara, a bestselling song. But she was nobody's muse. Did Felix really bring baby crocodiles to the Cartier boutique to request lifelike copies in a necklace? The story may be apocryphal, but it perfectly encapsulates her powerful, independent and unconventional persona. This book first examines Felix's life and work, reviewing her films and acting style and considering what they say about gender norms and a woman's place on screen. It then turns to her role as curator and benefactor, exploring how art, literature and song sustained her image. It concludes by exploring the persistent interest in her life story and evaluating her significance for contemporary audiences.

About the Author
NIAMH THORNTON is Professor of Latin American Studies at the University of Liverpool, UK.


Book Information
ISBN 9781855663725
Author Niamh Thornton
Format Hardback
Page Count 294
Imprint Tamesis Books
Publisher Boydell & Brewer Ltd
Weight(grams) 1g