The Skin I Live In

When Spanish writer/director Perdo Almodovar releases a film it always a big event for lovers of quality cinema.

I've been a fan of Almodovar for a while now. He has a style that makes you know you are watching a quality film. He is a director who is so skilled at making films that while they may not be completely perfect they are still of a much higher standard than a lot of other films. The Almodovar name is a mark of cinematic quality. This film is no different.

The story for this film is very different to say the least. There is a plot twist that is not revealed until half way through the film and when you find out what it is, you will be amazed. I'm not familiar with the book on which the film is based but it is a really clever and interesting story. We have seen so many variations on the Frankenstein story that it is great to see someone do something very unique with it. Because of the twist it is told in a non-linear way. It did mean for me though that I got confused over the identity of a couple of characters but I did not mind too much. Then Almodovar has told the story with a great deal of skill. You just know you're in the hands of a master. He really knows how to film a scene and how to create a certain look.

Antonio Banderas has not been in many films lately so it is great to see him in something of such great quality. This is by far the best thing Antonio has done in ages. In the past he has over-acted quite bit but here he gives such a subtle and subdued performance. This is despite the fact he is playing such a crazy man. Elena Anaya is excellent at the 'creation'. Her character goes through many changes in the film and it is a testament to Elena that she can convey all those changes. Marisa Paredes is equally as good as Dr. Ledgard's maid. You really get a sense of how strong their relationship is, that despite what he is doing that she is willing to go along with it. Equally as good is Jan Cornet in a small but very pivotal role.

If you are a bit sick of the same old ordinary films being released and want to see something unique and different then make sure you check this out. Sometimes cinema needs to challenge your thinking.