//D2) Pedro Almodóvar> 11 of

I am now intriged by Pedro Almodóvar's work and intend to work my way through this list.



This is by far my favourite role for Penelope Cruz, who has always been an actress I can take or leave. Her role as a hard working Mum on the poverty line and coping with a series of events causing just a little bit of chaos, which take several twists and turns.



A totally original piece and one I certainly recommend

A bizarre tale, which was a little confusing at times, but of course all makes sense eventually. It possibly requires more than one viewing though to really put the pieces of the puzzle together correctly.

Very typical in the sense of Almodovar though, to bring us an unusual topic, which many Directors wouldn't have delved into.

An original and unusual storyline and set of circumstances. There was one particular scene that was quite bizarre and I?m sure if you?ve seen it you will know immediately of which one I?m referring to, but the main plot is a much more serious and interesting story, which I felt made compelling viewing.

Another ?plucked from nowhere? story from Almodovar. Although this is a well known title, I didn?t feel this was quite as good as the other couple I have seen so far, yet just as unpredictable and again we really get to know the characters well throughout the story.

Another original piece.

Another enjoyable film from Almodovar. A story of betrayal, love and revenge, with some great characters.

Although this appears to be one of Almodovar?s best, in terms of the critics, I never quite felt that quality and feel it lacked the Almodovar stamp that sets much of his work apart from others. That being said it was watchable, but without any rise of excitement for me.

I did like the references to PD's other work, but this was a reminder that this piece was not in the same league.

My least favourite of Almodovar?s so far, the plot seemed quite weak and there was very little excitement to it.

Almodovar gave some added controversy here, by making a rape scene into a bit of a comedy moment, I would be interested to see what people?s comments are and how many will feel it reached over the controversial line?

Like many of Almodovar?s work, the beauty is always found in the most unusual circumstances. Just like Penelope Cruz, we see a very different side of Antonio Banderas than the Hollywood Actor we all know him to be.

A compelling watch with an enjoyable plot.

Not the most welcoming of titles and the first half of the film is pretty much as you?d expect from the title, a little depressing and wondering where it?s all heading. It?s certainly not a film that builds up into a big climax, but the second half does get a little better, wouldn?t necessarily recommend it though and it?s certainly not one of Almodovar?s best.

A love triangle evolves into obsession and murder, in this fairly early Almodovar picture. Like many of PD?s films, there are subtle hints of sub-stories which push the boundaries of socially accepted relationships.

A very important role for Antonio Banderas in terms of progressing towards his Hollywood career. With some (fairly) graphic sexual scenes this may not be for everyone, but a good watch for any Almodovar fans.

As an early Almodovar film, you can clearly see the stamp of the talented Director. A very young Antonio Banderas also provides us with a little insight into his earlier work.

The storyline unravels into a sadistic thriller, where two serial killers share a morbid sexual obsession.

It's certainly an original piece, as are all of the Almodovar films that I've seen to date, perhaps not quite as polished as his more recent work, but still a good watch for any fan.