by Hal Erickson
synopsis
The title of this Mexican romantic drama translates loosely as The Silken Chinese Dress. The titular fabric carries with it an ancient curse, which brings disaster upon anyone who wears the dress. Maria Felix plays Senora de la Barca, the wife of Spain's first Mexican ambassador, who vows to defy superstition and wear the forbidden gown. But first, she traces the dress' melancholy history, which involves the tragic romance between a captive Chinese princess and Spanish aristocrat. Lavishly produced, China Poblama proved to be another successful stepping stone in the burgeoning film career of the lovely Maria Felix.
