Codeliusthe2nd

Pain and Glory

This is my first encounter with Almodóvar, and it certainly is one that I will never forget. Seemingly to be semi-autobiographical, Pain & Glory defines what it is to reminisce, and how that can drive you creatively. Banderas offers what may be his finest role of his career, with Cruz and Etxeandia also having shining roles. I am very glad I had the chance to include this in my year, since it truly is one of the year’s strongest films. I can’t wait to see what else Almodóvar has to offer, since he truly blew me away here .

Lex

Pain and Glory

Funny how they already make a film about me!

Diego León

Pain and Glory

A una película de Pedro nunca le va a faltar corazón, pero aquí sentí un peso del tiempo que no había sentido antes. Siempre logra manejar bien la nostalgia y no he logrado descifrar su secreto. La vida de Salvador se siente universal y específica al mismo tiempo, como si Pedro se haya intentado separar de la historia y no haya podido. La narración también me gustó porque mide lo que dice y no abusa de ella.  Al inicio de la película, Salvador escribía para olvidar. Se encontraba en este círculo vicioso donde sus problemas de salud le quitaban cualquier motivación a seguir trabajando, lo cual le podía ayudar a sanar. Pero logró salir de la negación, sanar cosas de su pasado y ponerle la atención debida a lo que su cuerpo y alma necesitaban. Para el final, Salvador escribe para recordar.

ron

Pain and Glory

Beautifully shot and drenched in searing desire and crippling melancholia, Almodóvar has crafted one of my favorite films of the year. There are some shots in here that are just etched into my mind and that I will be thinking about for quite sometime...also Antonio needs to receive all the nominations. His performance was as tremendous as it was devastating. I hope he gets the recognition he deserves this season.