Almodovar, maestro of the melodrama, is at his peak with PARALLEL MOTHERS.
An unparalleled performance by Penelope Cruz propels this multi-layered story of misplaced babies and historical massacre. If there is better acting than this on the screen at the moment I should like to be made aware. She is luminous as Janis, the fabulous photographer named for Janis Joplin by her hippy mother, who is following a family tradition of single motherhood.
In the maternity ward, Janis meets Anna, a teenager who sees her pregnancy as a predicament in parallel contrast to Janis’ elation. Propagated in large part by Anna’s thespian mum, Janis and Anna form a bond, tenuous at first but the parallel tracks of destiny converge and intersect over time as shocking incidents and secrets bring them closer together.
Complex, robust, sumptuous to look at, PARALLEL MOTHERS is exquisitely realised on all fronts. Personal relationships run parallel with wider political ramifications, reconciliation with past and present.
Strong women – indeed all the women in PARALLEL MOTHERS are strong – are the pillars of the picture. It is their resilience that is celebrated in this astonishingly entertaining and emotional roller coaster.
Besides the stupendous portrayal by Penelope Cruz, Milena Smit is super impressive as Anna, spoilt, bratty, entitled, scared, loving, she runs a gamut in her evolution from troubled teen to maturing woman.
Almodovar staple,Rossy de Palma as Elena, Janis’ pal and agent is larger than life but so much more than mere comic relief.
Aitana Sanchez-Gijon as Theresa, Anna’s thespian mum reveals another beautifully realised back story, and the only male in the film,Israel Elejalde as Janis’ sperm donor is stoic, steadfast and solid.
Alberto Iglesias beautiful and evocative score soars and elevates the tensions and traumas, Antxon Gomez’s production design is a delight with all the Alodovar traits and tropes in bold colour and Jose Lui Alcaine’s cinematography sublimely captures the palette and canvas.
Bold, vivacious, provocative, dazzling, PARALLEL MOTHERS is a screen gem from one of the great film makers showcasing one of our greatest film stars. Readily pay to see it again.
PHOTOS: THE FABULOUS WOMEN OF PARALLEL MOTHERS
Richard Cotter