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.