La Pel Que Habito (The Skin I Live In)

 The Skin I Live In

Antonio Banderas and Elena Anaya are at the core of the story told in this exceptional movie that conjures up flavours of Cronenburg and the ethereal quality of Lynch. It's a story about one mans obsession, and his cold scientific eye following an incredible path to both follow the obsession and revenge for an act that took place involving his daughter.
Almodovar is a master of the surreal as seen in his past work; this film follows a path that is a story of obsession not unlike that of Dr Frankenstein. As the story unfolds a terrible truth is revealed and the level of Banderas’ Doctor Legard’s obsession becomes clear. Horrifyingly so. The way in which the story is told gradually entwines the viewer into the Surgeons mind and motivation.
There are moments of real horror in the sense of how a human being can be manipulated to meet the needs of another, alongside these moments there is a story that is unravelled in a disjointed manner, and this adds to the feeling of dislocation. Love is an underlying theme; love between family members and love between two people. 
Banderas is excellent but high praise should go to the beautiful Elena Anaya as Vera Cruz, the quality of her performance takes on greater meaning as the tale unfolds. She has a great future ahead of her, that's for sure.
It is hard to review this movie as there is a central fact that, if revealed, will spoil the enjoyment of the first time viewer. That central fact is where Aldomovar shows an eye for showing the limits of morality.
soundtrack
Suffice to say that La Pel Que Habito is one of the best movies that have been released for some time. Intelligent, moving, horrifying and always interesting. The soundtrack by Alberto Iglesias is superb, as is the set design; Quality from Almodovar.
trailer Espanol

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