Matador (film)

Matador (1986 film poster)

Matador is a 1986 Spanish drama film directed by Pedro Almodóvar. The film stars Assumpta Serna, Antonio Banderas, and Nacho Martínez. It is a dark and provocative exploration of themes such as sexuality, death, and obsession.

Plot

The story revolves around Diego Montes (Nacho Martínez), a former bullfighter who has retired due to a severe injury. He now runs a bullfighting school and is obsessed with death and eroticism. Diego meets María Cardenal (Assumpta Serna), a lawyer who shares his morbid fascinations. The two form a passionate and dangerous relationship.

Meanwhile, Ángel (Antonio Banderas), one of Diego's students, is struggling with his own sexual identity and guilt. He confesses to a series of murders he did not commit, leading to a complex investigation that intertwines the lives of all the main characters.

Cast

• Assumpta Serna as María Cardenal
• Antonio Banderas as Ángel
• Nacho Martínez as Diego Montes
• Eva Cobo as Eva
• Julieta Serrano as Berta
• Chus Lampreave as Pilar

Themes

Matador delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring the connections between sex and death. The film also touches on themes of guilt, redemption, and the psychological complexities of its characters.

Production

The film was produced by Andrés Vicente Gómez and features a musical score by Bernardo Bonezzi. The cinematography was handled by Ángel Luis Fernández, and the film was edited by José Salcedo.

Reception

Matador received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following. Critics praised Almodóvar's bold storytelling and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Assumpta Serna and Antonio Banderas.

Legacy

Matador is considered an important film in Pedro Almodóvar's career, showcasing his unique style and thematic preoccupations. It is often studied for its exploration of taboo subjects and its impact on Spanish cinema.

See also

• Pedro Almodóvar filmography
• Spanish cinema
• Bullfighting in film