In her Parallel Mothers review, Lisa Johnson Mandell says Spanish masters Pedro Almodóvar and Penélope Cruz work their mutual magic in a mesmerizing, sensual and surprising drama de la corazon.

I admit my affinity for the films of Pedro Almodóvar could be influenced by my time spent living in Spain. He always takes me right back home to the colors, sites, sounds and accents. Before I know it, the subtitles disappear and I am immersed in a much loved and familiar world.

But I believe Almodovar’s latest film has universal appeal, even if you’ve never been to Spain (but kinda like the music). My husband, who fits in that category, was enthralled by the film.

This is the story of two single women at their most vulnerable, who meet in a hospital room when they’re both on the verge of giving birth. One, (Penélope Cruz) is a successful photographer, excited about motherhood. The other (the entrancing new Elena Smit) is young, traumatized and scared.

The two create a bond in the hospital that is stronger than they imagine, and will affect them in startling ways several months later. There is a subplot about the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath adroitly woven into the film that revolves around the belief that the truth always surfaces.

This is the 7th time Almodovar and Cruz have worked together, and their synergy is finely and comfortably honed. Together they tell a cinematic song of sustenance, both physical and emotional, that is a beauty to behold and highly entertaining.

Did this movie review inspire you to run out to your local arthouse theater and see it? If so, get times and tickets on Fandango.com.

Rated R

2 Hours 3 Minutes

In this film review Lisa Johnson Mandell says Spanish masters Pedro Almodóvar and Penélope Cruz work their mutual magic in a mesmerizing, sensual and surprising drama de la corazon.