Bad Education

[sal]

Has anyone seen this movie? Very impressive!! Almodovar is one of the greatest directors alive today. His films are very unusual, and he's known for always having powerful female characters in his films. His previous two pictures, "All About My Mother" and "Talk to Her" have been Oscar winners, but I feel that this film, which was shunned by Oscar last year, is his greatest achievement to date. Its quite different from his previous efforts, especially given that the only significant "female" character in this story is a drag queen. I don't want to get into the plot, which is somewhat complex, but this film contains alot of similar characteristics as his other films, but has a much darker feel. I experienced similar sensations watching this film as I did when I first saw Mulholland Drive.

This film is the true breakout for Gael Garcia Bernal, the Mexican actor who starred in Amores Perros, Y Tu Mama Tambien, and Motorcycle Diaries. He gives the performance of his career here. He is extremely talented, and don't be surprised when in a few years he becomes a household name for American audiences.

Be warned, however, that homosexual themes run rampant throughout this movie, and there are some graphic sex scenes. So if that sort of thing bothers you, stay away. But if not, this is a brilliant film that you won't soon forget. Also, be sure to watch the NC-17 version. From what I hear, there is an R rated version made for US release that contains some horrible digital censorship that ruins alot of the scenes.