Review of The Skin I Live In (2011) by Ola G — 09 Apr 2012

In Toledo/Spain, the plasticsurgeon Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonio Banderas) is researching a synthetic skin capable of resisting fire after the death of his beloved wife, who was badly burnt in a car accident. He is isolated in his mansion with his maid Marilia (Marisa Paredes) and his mysterious patient Vera Cruz (Elena Anaya), who is acting as a guinea pig for Dr. Ledgards synthetic skin project. One day a visitor to the mansion creates a chainreaction for Robert, Vera and Marilia with massive consequences...

Almodovar is back in great form and delivers a great horror story sprinkled with suspense, revenge, love, nervous breakdowns, physical and mental alterations, loss, insanity and family matters. As usual Almodovar manages to present a story with a set of colorful characters and environments one will not forget. The storyline carries of course an opinion about plasticsurgery and the different sides of it. How it can be used in good ways and how it can be used in terrifying ways. And how long would you be willing to go for revenge? It is good as well to see Antonio Banderas back in form in his native language as Dr. Ledgard. I have seen Elena Anaya before, but she is truly impressive as Vera. A great performance. She has such an aura. Stunning eyes. I was mesmerized by her. A beautiful woman. And when watching an Almodovar movie I always get so inspired to go to Spain, a country I still have not seen properly. I just hope I will not bump into anyone similar to an Almodovar character... I am looking forward to the next Almodovar project.