El palomo cojo

This 1995 drama, based on the best-selling Spanish novel of the same name is quite impressive at many levels. It is a moving family drama reflecting the realities of Spanish society in the early 50's. It is rich in period detail from art direction to dialogues, colorful characters, make-up, and all-around look and feeling. The ensemble cast is stunning featuring legendary Spanish actor, Francisco Ribal (grandfather of the now famous Liberto - star of Almodovar's LIVE FLESH/Carne Tremula), and four of the country's best actresses in film today: Carmen Maura, Maria Barranco, Ana Torrent and Maria Galiana. It is a coming of age story in juxtaposition with a passing of age story , namely that of the Rabal character (an aging, alienated family patriarch who compares himself with his pet "limp dove," hence the title). This bird who can no longer fly, nevertheless tries to influence the future of his great nephew, who is about to begin taking flight. This great uncle must exert his influence, under difficult family pressures, coming from a variety of eccentric characters, not the least of whom is the family's long-time housekeeper. The movie is one of the best Spanish dramas of the mid 90's.

This is one of those Spanish films where the plot is just "things that happen in life", and it's hard to put your finger on one specific plot line. Is it about love? Is it about family? Is it about being a child? All of them at once. Which means, at least in my opinion, that there is no strength. It's a good enough comedy, family, romance, Spanish film. It's not outstanding in any of these categories.

Interpretations are good, all the actors fit their roles with like a glove. The only thing is, this being 2022, some viewers might faint when they see an old woman kissing a young boy in the lips, or showing him her breasts. But that's one of the allures of Spanish and French films. If you want skin, you'll see plenty of it.

This is a film that contains a collection of stories about Spanish people. It's not a big epic. It's a small, down to earth sort of coming-of-age film. Enjoyable, but probably forgettable.