Explore some of the ways in which you have gained
fresh insights into your chosen film as a
result of applying one or more specific critical approaches.
Throughout the study of Almodovar‘s Talk To Her (2002), I have developed an understanding of melodramatic conventions,
as well as appreciating the different connotations that these themes can
represent. Melodrama, as a genre,
is characterized by a plot that appeals to the heightened emotions of the
audience, generally depending on stereotypical character development, exaggerated
interaction and sensitive themes. Many of Almodovar’s films illustrate these
ideas through the mediums of character, theme, setting, narrative
and the auteur’s personal style.
During the course of the film, as well
as in many films of the same genre,
the theme
of performance
is prominent. Not only in the exaggerated interactions of the characters (such
as Lydia’s reaction to the snake), but also in the structurally integrated performances;
Café Muller, Amante Menguante, Cucurrucucu
Palomas, etc. These are similar to Raimunda’s singing performance
in Volver (2006), and through studying these Almodovarian films, it is clear
that these routines act as visual procedures, purposefully mirroring the plot. Café
Muller incorporates the two sleepwalkers, echoing Alicia and Lydia, while Cucurrucucu Palomas illustrates Marco’s
sensitivity within his past and present relationship. This convention is used
in many melodrama films, and allows the audience to interpret the film both
visually and symbolically.
As well as a continuous theme of performance
