Volver

Highly praised at Cannes earlier this year, Volver (meaning 'to return') is Spanish director Pedro Almodovar's latest work. Set around La Mancha -the area in which he grew up- it is a personal movie about the bond shared between women. The ever beautiful Penelope Cruz leads a strong Spanish cast, that also marks the return of Carmen Maura to an Almodovar picture.

After her lecherous father drunkenly tries to abuse her, young Paula (Yohana Cobo) accidentally stabs him in the struggle. Mother Raimunda (Cruz) wastes no time in helping her distraught daughter, by disposing of the body and covering up the absence of her now late husband. Whilst occupied with such clandestine activity, Raimunda's sister Sole is left to attend a family funeral, only to discover something completely unexpected: their mother has returned. Their dead mother.

At it's heart this is a movie about the strong bond between women, especially the mother-daughter relationship. It's an all woman show, where tragic events in life (and the movie serves up plenty) are handled through female resourcefulness, strength of character, and the support of one another. The female characters are portrayed superbly by the cast. Cruz giving perhaps the best performance of her career to date; believably conveying the complex emotional challenges faced by Raimunda.

Prosthetic arse? It seems the only part of Cruz's performance that needed assistance, was portraying the distinctive La Mancha rump. Almodovar has a clear fondness and appreciation of the female form, reflected in many perfectly framed shots that lovingly accentuate feminine curves. Cruz is simply enchanting to watch, with scenes in the restaurant particular standouts. There is a colour and vibrancy to the movie that makes watching it a visual joy.

Amongst the life of working class Madrid, Almodovar seamlessly weaves a tale of suspense, superstition, and soap opera drama. There are moments when the latter threatens to unbalance the piece, teetering on the edge of melodrama, but such concerns ultimately prove unwarranted. There is also plenty of genuine humor throughout the movie, despite the emotional weight of what unfolds. The different threads are pulled together nicely, and while the ending may strike as a little haphazard, it is the ideal place at which to leave Raimunda and is perfectly fitting.

Volver is an engaging and beautiful piece of Spanish cinema, from a director at the height of his artistic power. A treat for any fan of cinema, but clearly one that will resonate strongest with a female audience.