The Skin I Live In (2011)

A film that leaves a mark, without being one of Pedro Almodovar's elite films. Even so, it is outrageously fascinating and creepy. Just in time for Halloween.


You will recognize many of Almodovar's plot strokes, including a bizarre twist or three. A horror thriller that is part "Frankenstein" (mad doctor). Part "Vertigo" (identity). And part "Cape Fear" (revenge).


Well played by Antonio Banderas, as the mad plastic surgeon, who wife was burned in a car crash. Thus, for the next 12 years he's working on the perfect skin, which guards against many inter and outer elements, and feels could have saved his wife.

However, the doctor needs a guinea pig. Enters Vera who becomes a caged woman. We also meet the doctors unbalanced suicidal daughter, lunatic brother, and his controlling maid and jailer (actual mother). This is just the beginning. If I revealed more I would be skinned.


It takes the film a bit too long to unfold. Otherwise, entertaining and mind boggling. For the weak at heart, not an easy film to watch.



4/5 stars


Jack

Sounds interesting enough, I have to look into this one.

I read about this movie a few months ago, and a lot of the viewers at a film festival (Cannes?) were disturbed by this movie. Which made it even more intriguing to me.

I am definitely going to see this one. I am a big admirer of Antonio Banderas, and am ready to watch something morbid from him.