I have watched two very good movies. Volver is simply unmissable. Some would say is is expected of Almodovar, but neverthless it is simply a cracker of a movie based on a bunch of women, each connected to each other in both twisted and direct ways. The total time in which men form part of the picture frame- a maximum of 15 minutes. The colours and the energy of Spanish landscape and language is superb. Penelope Cruz and Carmen Maura take the honours. I have decided to watch it again to just soak in the movie, again.

'Bella Martha' is a more regular movie- there is a woman in need of a personal life, a tragedy brings her in touch with that need more than ever, the knight in shining armour arrives and all's well that's ends well. However, this German movie is gentle and subtle. There are no dramatic moments of romance or tragedy. The whole movie is peppered with food and takes us through Martha'a need for control and the slow change in her perception of herself. Martina Gedeck as Martha is good. A perfect movie to kick off those shoes, sip some white wine and have some pasta. Hmmm....

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My sister has got her British Visa to visit us ! Hurrah! A good peice of news in a long time.