“Corina”

Director Urzula Barba Hopfner’s “Corina” is a delightful story that offers a charmingly imperfect and deeply endearing character study of a young woman struggling with agoraphobia and self-doubt. With its understated humor and relatable premise, the film effortlessly captures the essence of a journey taken toward personal growth and discovery.

At the heart of the film is Corina (Naian González Norvind), a 20-year-old who has spent most of her life confined to her home. She only ventures out to work at a nearby publishing house, where her presence goes largely unnoticed by colleagues. But when she makes a critical mistake involving the ending of the company’s famous book saga, her world is turned upside down. To save her job and the future of the publishing house, Corina must confront her fears and embark on an adventure in search of a mysterious author. Along the way, she finds an unexpected ally in Carlos (Cristo Fernández), who helps her push past her comfort zone.

The film’s pacing and tone perfectly match Corina’s internal transformation. Initially her world feels small and safe, confined within a predictable routine of avoiding the outside world. As Corina steps into the unknown, the film gently explores her growth and gradual realization that there is a larger, richer world that’s waiting just outside her front door. Hopfner offers a subtle, uplifting exploration of self-discovery where the seemingly mundane acts of stepping out for a walk or having a conversation with a stranger suddenly become deeply meaningful.

Corina’s journey is both personal and professional, making the film more than just an exploration of anxiety and fear but one of agency, discovery, and finding the courage to embrace change. Her transformation is not a grand, sweeping one, but rather a slow, deliberate opening to the world. Watching Corina face her fears while making a few missteps along the way is refreshingly human, and her imperfections are part of what makes her so lovable.

With its humor, lighthearted moments, and dose of whimsical charm, “Corina” is definitely a feel-good movie. Its message is one of hope and optimism, driving home the idea that even the smallest steps toward change can have the most profound impact.

By: Louisa Moore