María Ofelia Medina Torres is a multifaceted Mexican artist, boasting an impressive repertoire that spans across stage, screen, dance, song, screenwriting, radio production, and activism.
Born in the ancient city of Thor, which is now part of Mérida, Yucatán, Medina spent most of her childhood in Mexico City, where she developed a strong foundation in dance at the prestigious Academia de la Danza Mexicana. She graduated with honors as an interpreter and teacher of classic, regional, and contemporary dance, paving the way for a successful career in the performing arts.
At the tender age of 11, Medina joined film director Alejandro Jodorowsky's esteemed pantomime children's group, participating in the enchanting "Efímeros" shows. This early exposure to the world of cinema kindled a passion that would propel her to greater heights.
In 1977, Medina embarked on a journey to Los Angeles, where she enrolled at the renowned Lee Strasberg Film & Theatre Institute to further hone her craft. This marked the beginning of a prolific career in the film industry, which has seen her appear in over 75 feature films and television productions to date.
One of her most iconic roles is undoubtedly her portrayal of Frida Kahlo in "Frida, naturaleza viva" (1983),directed by Paul Leduc. This role cemented her status as a versatile and talented actress, capable of bringing complex characters to life on the big screen.
Beyond her work in the entertainment industry, Medina has been an ardent advocate for social justice, actively participating in student and human rights movements. In fact, she was one of the founding members of the Comité de Solidaridad con grupos étnicos marginados (Committee of Solidarity with Marginalized Ethnic Groups),a pioneering organization dedicated to defending the human rights of indigenous peoples in Mexico.
Looking ahead, Medina is set to make her directorial debut with the project "Tortilla," a film inspired by the Dogma and Cine Pobre movements. This ambitious venture promises to be a powerful exploration of the human experience, further solidifying Medina's status as a visionary artist and a champion of social change.
