Review of Bad Education (2004) by Avier K — 16 May 2009

In spite of the very disturbing subject matter, that features more transvestites, transsexuals, and homosexual acts than I have ever seen in a single film with the exception of "Mysterious Skin," as a whole "Bad Education" is a triumph for Spanish master Pedro Almodovar, who is revered as one of the best foreign directors out there.

The film is a superb character study, as it effectively showcases several complex protagonists; whose flaws and eccentricities are shown in every way conceivable. Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the film is Gael Garcia Bernal's ability to play three characters with the utmost precision and ease.

His performance here is one that you'd be hard-pressed to match in terms of intensity with that of any American actor. Just like the aforementioned "Mysterious Skin," La Mala Educacion is a very powerful portrait of the manner in which childhood abuses can not only shatter the faith of an innocent boy, but it can also have resounding consequences for the future.

This film is not for the faint of heart, and I found myself cringing at looking away from the screen many times. but it is nonetheless a very rewarding film.