This is story of a woman who faces up to a terrible reality. The man who was supposed to love her is the man who tries to cut back all her self-esteem and freedom, the same as a bonsai branches can be cut back because of its owner's whim.
'Bonsai' is a clean and simple way to show a devastating reality that many woman suffer since a long time ago. The terrible situation of a woman who is psychologically trapped by her husband's manipulating mind. Bonsai are miniature trees no different than any other tree – left on their own they would grow into full-sized trees (much like the trees that composed the forest around our home). But rather than being allowed to reach their fullest size, Bonsai trees are planted in miniature pots, their roots are stunted, and their branches are pruned incessantly. As a result, Bonsai trees never grow to their fullest potential.
This is similar to the tragedy that plays in Laura's (actress Clara Sanchez) life. She might be designed to accomplish great things, and be happy with her daughter, but her life is stunted by her abusive husband.
Director Roberto Aznar did a great job letting us now the aspect of this film in subtle ways without showing extreme violence, but it it still uses a powerful cinematic language; the characters sadness; the sweet innocence of a little girl, and a nun who is the hero who opens Laura's eyes, and helps her find the way to detach from this abusive and devastating situation. A situation that no child, woman or family member should ever have to pass through.
This film should be used to educate women around the world. It could make a big change and have a strong impact on people's lives; in places where a woman's fight for autonomy still rages on.
Yubo Fernández/Cult Critic/CICFF