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Review

Openly-gay director Pedro Almodóvar's comic masterpiece is by far his most accessible film to date and is largely responsible for familiarizing many American audiences with his unique talents.

Based loosely on Jean Cocteau's "The Human Voice," the story follows Pepa - brillantly portrayed by Maura - an actress whose life crumbles around her when she comes home one day to find her lover, Ivan, has left her. The ensuing hour-and-a-half turns into a hilarious comic romp as she tries to piece her life back together. Serrano is terrific as Ivan's insane wife and Barranco is hysterical as Pepa's friend who is fleeing from Shiite terrorists.

Not gay-themed, but a comedy that comes from a gay perspective. Carmen Maura is a scream as the emotional woman who attempts to piece together her life again with the assistance of her friends (including Rossy DiPalma, the "walking Picasso") and a healthy hatred for her ex!

The set design and color schematics alone are impeccable. In a word: fabulous.