Parallel Mothers

Cruz may not be the favorite in the Best Actress race, but her performance in Pedro Almodóvar’s film is, well, unparalleled.

I was both fairly sure what Parallel Mothers might be, and eager to be surprised. Thankfully, Almodóvar delivers on both fronts – as Almodóvar should almost always be entrusted to do.

If you're already a fan of Almodovar's work this is essential viewing; if you haven't been introduced to his very special world before, Parallel Mothers will be a great place to start.

Most of all, it's Cruz who sets the tone, with a performance that radiates warmth and is refreshingly forgiving of her character's flaws. She has never been better.

Even the dark excavation at the heart of the enterprise is delivered with wit, warmth and eye-popping colours.

What won't be a surprise for those familiar with Almodóvar is the film's mix of restraint and extravagance, the director's delirious use of color, his ecstatic aesthetic and a sense of the theatrical.

Take a seat and let the story captivate you from the first words to the very last frame.

This is Almodóvar at his most political and romantic, an absolute treat for all of the senses.

This marks the 7th film Cruz and Almodóvar have made together, and you can see how well they understand each other as artists.

Lightness of touch is not a virtue usually associated with the exuberant Madrileño maestro, but he draws these themes together with gossamer delicacy.