A deeply nuanced portrayal of female bonds.

Cruz may not be the favorite in the Best Actress race, but her performance in Pedro Almodóvar’s film is, well, unparalleled.

I was both fairly sure what Parallel Mothers might be, and eager to be surprised. Thankfully, Almodóvar delivers on both fronts – as Almodóvar should almost always be entrusted to do.

It’s a light, sunny work. I am grateful for the performances, and especially for the opportunity to enjoy the sublime work of Rossy de Palma. But compared with the maturity of Pain and Glory, the film seems jejune.