All About Desire: The Passionate Cinema of Pedro Almodovar (2001 TV Movie) User Reviews

Not Worth It

[portrait-co · 1/10 · 3 February 2006]

A group of us watched this profile of Almodovar hoping for some entertaining anecdotes, a little insight into a fascinating director, at the very least, some interesting documentary ideas being put forward for the discerning viewer. Unfortunately, all we got was cliché after cliché: this very limited TV production re-invents nothing when it comes to recycling the repetitive talking head film clip format and even manages to make Almodovar rather wearying to the ear (no mean feat). It comes as no surprise that this flat-footed effort to whip up enthusiasm for the talented Spanish director and his films won no awards, attended next to no international festivals, and was broadcast next to nowhere. When - oh when ! are we finally going to get an inspired portrait of Pedro?

Cliché-Ridden

[marie-planchette · 1/10 · 4 December 2004]

I have a keen interest in Almodovar's films but watching this pedestrian documentary was a serious disappointment - nothing but TV format clichés by a mediocre director. Even the TV format duration - 49 minutes - is laughable: how can one possible deal in depth with one of Europe's finest directors given such a time limit? The major problem with info docs like this (the kind that are never selected for international festivals or nominated for important prizes) - is the lack of form and vision, two qualities that bring a sense of originality to what you're watching.

The ridiculously high score (it helps having friends pushing the score up for you) is in no way a reality of what's in store for the viewer. I gave it a 1 out of sheer rage for wasting my precious time.