Volver
A beautiful story, beautifully told.
Pedro Almodovar brings together a tour-de-force female cast in a mythical tale of survival, friendship, and life after family. Penelope Cruz stars as Raimunda, a strong, young mother determined to protect her daughter from the unhappiness that has swallowed her. But when an unavoidable death occurs, and the ghost of Raimunda's dead mother is sighted in the town, a change in the wind is imminent. Although Volver captures one of Cruz's best performances to date, her feat only slightly betters that of the other four heroines, each of whom shared the Best Actress honours at Cannes. This award winning piece is Almodovar at his best: telling a beautiful story, beautifully well. Volver will leave you yearning for the feminine touch. [Megan Garriock]