2021 ( Spain | France ) ( Drama )
( Spanish with English subtitles )
Starring: Penélope Cruz, Milena Smit, Israel Elejalde
Director: Pedro Almodóvar
Photographer Penélope Cruz and traumatised teenager Milena Smit bond in the maternity ward where both give birth after unplanned pregnancies. How their lives subsequently entangle deftly weaves together a twisty melodrama with reference to a poignant Spanish Civil War historical background which is both gripping and emotionally satisfying. Cruz positively glows as the capable career woman trying to cope with heart-breaking deception, while newcomer Smit is disarming as the privileged failure desperate to find her place in the world.
Parallel Mothers is a really engaging watch with plenty of unforeseen story turns that seem incredibly random at first, but ultimately come together in a very intentional way. Penélope Cruz gives a powerful and beautifully relatable performance as a woman navigating some very messy life choices with wisdom and empathy.
(2hr 3min)