Cannes 2026: Pedro Almodovar's 'Bitter Christmas' explores writing and self-reflection
Pedro Almodóvar's latest film, 'Bitter Christmas,' explores themes of writing and self-reflection. This film marks his seventh entry in competition for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The narrative intertwines two storylines, highlighting the connection between an author and their characters.
- ▪'Bitter Christmas' is Pedro Almodóvar's 23rd feature film.
- ▪The film features a split narrative structure with two intertwining storylines.
- ▪Almodóvar's work has shifted towards introspection since 'Pain and Glory' in 2019.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Barbara Lennie (Elsa) and Victoria Luengo (Patricia) in "Bitter Christmas," by Pedro Almodóvar. EL DESEO/IGLESIAS MAS/PATHÉ FILMS OFFICIAL SELECTION – IN COMPETITION LE MONDE'S OPINION – WORTH SEEING Bitter Christmas, Pedro Almodovar's latest and 23rd feature film, is his seventh film to compete for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, a run that began with All About My Mother (1999), which won him Best Director. The film is being released simultaneously in French cinemas. Over nearly half a century of filmmaking, Spain's most celebrated director has gone through many phases, from his early biting comedies to a more recent turn toward melodrama.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Le Monde (EN).