Squared and moving forward

jogrant

A quite attractive portrait of local customs and manners that rings true. Although sure to get laughs when viewed from other cultures; the characters are developed and interpreted with affection. Several stunning images stay with the viewer after the movie is over –the circle of women receiving Sole at the wake, the body in the kitchen, the cutting board– but this story uses less visual and colour metaphor than recent past films and instead focuses in on the actor's renditions. We see people from a village behaving and doing as they typically do.

The script does seem to wander about pursuing things that don't necessarily tie in but all the events are included to maximise the "mannerist" picture and flesh out the characters' dysfunctions. The grandmother Carmen Maura plays isn't merely comic relief but a super realist example of how far an intrusive society can push its members into hiding as well as a symbol of the below board justice that was for so long practiced in villages outside the direct reach of authorities.

Like LA MALA EDUCACION, the script centres on a subject that would have been taboo for open discussion for Spanish society not fifteen years ago. More so if it was to take place in a small village where everyone treats other people's business as public domain. It is interesting to note that for many decades under Spanish criminal law a blood relationship (especially that of a father to a daughter) with a rape victim is considered a mitigating factor in sentencing. Thus, Raimunda's attitudes and motivations are explained perfectly when viewed in light of what she lived through. Penelope Cruz's interpretation was fantastic in my opinion, in that is showed all the locked up rage, sorrow, distance and detachment that is typical in people who have suffered such childhood experiences.

I found it extremely gratifying to see a movie treat this subject matter without falling into morbid clichés or sappy after school special type emotional dialogue. I find it especially gratifying that this film has finally given Almodovar the recognition he deserves in his home country: Goyas for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress (Maura)

score 8/10

jogrant 20 March 2006

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1320286/