Pedro Almodovar’s latest movie reunites him with Antonio Banderas who plays Dr. Robert Ledgard, a brilliantly successful plastic surgeon who, much to the chagrin of the medical community, is currently experimenting with creating a new type of human skin with some very questionable practices. He is doing this solely for Vera a beautiful gamine who he keeps imprisoned in his isolated mansion home with the complicity of his childhood nanny Marilia. As the relationship between Robert and Vera progresses, it gradually becomes clear that she is somehow linked to both the suicide of his teenage daughter and a tragic accident involving his beloved wife.
At the same time, flashbacks reveal the story of Vicente a feisty young man who works in his mother’s dress shop, who encounters both Robert and his daughter at a party.
Like all Almodovar films this one is about family, although that doesn’t become clear until this highly chilling thriller works through its very twisted and highly emotional plot. Central to the story is Dr. Ledgard who we never can decide is either a demented scientist or just a tragic hero … and its impossible to second-guess either his motives or actions.
It’s a brilliant but disturbing movie and although I would never hesitate to recognize this filmmaker’s genius, I do wonder what sort of mind can create such contorted plots. As usual it is a highly stylized production, beautifully filmed, with a moving score from Almodovar regular Alberto Iglesias, and its great to watch one of his favorite actress’s Marisa Parades steal scenes as Marilia the maid. The real delight however is Mr. Banderas who’s understated and stunning performance is a revelation and really makes this movie gel. In my book he’s never made a decent movie since his Almodovar days so it’s good to see him back, and on form.
R.T.V. Definitely one of Mr Almodovar’s better movies, and good enough to gather an Oscar buzz (esp. for Mr. Banderas) when it opens in the US later this year
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