Review 520: Pain and Glory

Pain and Glory is a one of Pedro Almodovar's best films and a showcase for one of Antonio Banderas' best performances in recent years.

Salvador Mallo (Antonio Banderas) is a washed out film director who reflects on the choices he's made in life as his past and present come crashing around him.

The plot is a quiet, reflective, meditative look at

Pedro Almodovar's direction is  the cinematography is gorgeous, the score by Alberto Iglesias is beautiful, the production design is terrific, the costumes are fantastic, the

Antonio Banderas delivers one of his best performances in recent years playing a man whose racked with pain both physically and mentally.

Penelope Cruz also gets an opportunity to showcase her talents playing Jacinta Mallo, Salvador's mother. Expertly conveying the maternity and vulnerability required for the part.