Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Penélope Cruz | ... | Lena | |
Lluís Homar | ... | Mateo Blanco / Harry Caine | |
Blanca Portillo | ... | Judit García | |
José Luis Gómez | ... | Ernesto Martel | |
Rubén Ochandiano | ... | Ray X | |
Tamar Novas | ... | Diego | |
Ángela Molina | ... | Madre de Lena | |
Chus Lampreave | ... | Portera | |
Kiti Mánver | ... | Madame Mylene | |
Lola Dueñas | ... | Lectora de labios | |
Mariola Fuentes | ... | Edurne | |
Carmen Machi | ... | Chon | |
Kira Miró | ... | Modelo | |
Rossy de Palma | ... | Julieta | |
Alejo Sauras | ... | Álex |
Passion, obsession, wealth, jealousy, family, guilt, and creativity. In Madrid, Harry Caine is a blind screenwriter, assisted by Judit and her son Diego. The past comes rushing in when Harry learns of the death of Ernesto Martel, a wealthy businessman, and Ernesto's son pays Harry a visit. In a series of flashbacks to the 1990s, we see Harry, who was then Mateo Blanco, a director; he falls in love with Ernesto's mistress, Lena, and casts her in a film, which Ernesto finances. Ernesto is jealous and obsessive, sending his son to film the making of the movie, to follow Lena and Mateo, and to give him the daily footage. Judit doesn't like Lena. It's a collision course. Written by <jhailey@hotmail.com>
A wonderful film. One of Almodovar's finest, and probably the most accomplished work by Penelope Cruz, whose subtle performance as Lena is a real achievement. I was lucky enough to enjoy the film in a press preview, and simply adored it. The script is extremely complex, though this fact does not result in making the story difficult to follow. All characters are perfectly defined and handled by Almodóvar, in his rich, flamboyant style. I liked this film even more than Almodovar's previous "Volver". I found this more powerful, both visually and emotionally. The music score by Alberto Iglesias is simply alluring. Cinematography by Mexican Rodrigo Prieto is also very good. But the beauty of the film is basically due to the enormous talent of Señor Almodóvar. Thanks, Pedro!