Opened: February 7, 1987

Directed by: Pedro Almodóvar

Starring: Eusebio Poncela, Carmen Maura, Antonio Banderas, Miguel Molina, Manuela Velasco, Bibi Andersen, Fernando Guillén, Fernando Guillén Cuervo, Helga Liné, Nacho Martínez, Germán Cobos & Rossy de Palma

Infusing an erotic thriller with multiple queer themes was a risk in 1987, but writer-director Pedro Almodóvar’s interesting roster of characters makes the film a success.

Director Pablo Quintero (Eusebio Poncela) isn’t receiving the love he’s giving to Juan (Miguel Molina), who leaves for the summer. Pablo puts on a play starring his transgender sister Tina (Carmen Maura) and picks up Antonio (Antonio Banderas) on opening night.

While much of Antonio’s character remains surface level, Banderas still makes him exciting. His passion for Pablo is evident and he’s willing to go to the extremes, but there could be more of an investment in his downward spiral.

Maura makes the film her own in a groundbreaking role. Tina is strong and unapologetic. Almodóvar gives her the true emotional center of the film, and Maura doesn’t waste it.

Final say: Desirably intriguing. ★★★★☆