Nominated for the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundance 2023, this heartwarming and thoughtful dramedy peeks into the life of an aging Catholic grandmother who one day happens upon internet pornography, thus reigniting a late bloomer’s foray into finding joy in life’s greater pleasures. —M.G.

MAMACRUZ is a story of personal awakening found when least expected. Told with cheeky humor, vibrant visuals, and uplifting humanist insight, the film follows Cruz—a woman isolated from her aging husband and career-focused daughter. An accidental click on her iPad opens an adult video, unlocking buried desires that she will look to her church, her family, and her community to fulfill. But through her journey Cruz learns that this suddenly awakened longing can only be satisfied from within. Spanish cinema and television veteran Kiti Mánver is given a divine showcase as the titular hero, bringing grounded soul to the Venezuelan director Patricia Ortega’s already vividly realized film, ultimately creating a tender portrait of feminine sexuality, spirituality, and self-love. —C.F.

Content Warning: This film contains material that may be difficult for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.