Review of Matador (1986) by Daniel A — 02 Jan 2012

Sexually expressive and of course unashamedly controversial, Almodovar's Matador sees him continue his exploration of intense sexual desire and regular flirtations with violence.

If you've seen any of his other works from this time you will know roughly what to expect, as Matador sits above the likes of Kika, High Heels and Time Me Up! Tie Me Down!, and a little below Law of Desire in the overall ranking of late-80s/early 90s Almodovar; these pictures are all intrinsically linked by style and subject.

Matador stands out for being Antonio Banderas' real breakthrough, and still sits proudly amongst his best performances, here playing a cowardly, sexually confused teen who believes all crimes should be suitably paid for.

All in all this isn't required Almodovar viewing, but acts as a good signifier of what the auteur was all about during the era.