Respond to these rapid questions in our Parallel Mothers quiz and we will tell you which Parallel Mothers character you are. Play it now.
This is the eighth film in which Pedro Almodóvar and Penelope Cruz have collaborated over the past quarter century, and the magical connection between them continues to grow stronger and shine brighter with “Parallel Mothers.” The Spanish maestro knows exactly how to coax out all of the colors from his charismatic muse, and in turn, the veteran star transforms his material into something that is both fiery and grounded in its appeal.
This time around, they tell a story that is both personal and political at the same time. Intimate story of two women and their intertwined lives, but it is also about Spain’s troubled history, and the way strong women are linked for generations through the past, even as they help each other forge a happier future, in this film. It sounds like a lot, and “Parallel Mothers” is indeed dripping with Almodóvar’s trademark brand of melodrama, to boot. However, the performances always contribute to the film’s feeling of substance and authenticity, particularly the interplay between the film’s two very different leads.
Cruz takes on the role of Janis, a successful photographer who lives in Madrid. She becomes pregnant as she approaches her fortieth birthday as a result of a brief liaison with Arturo (Israel Elejalde), a handsome and charming forensic archaeologist. In a strange coincidence, she gives birth on the same day as another young single mother, 17-year-old Ana (the attractive Milena Smit), who also happens to be her hospital roommate. From those earliest, kindhearted conversations, the two women find themselves connecting in a variety of unexpected ways at a time when they are both at their most vulnerable and exciting points in their respective lives. They are experiencing the same feelings of elation and exhaustion as everyone else. In order not to give anything away about the many twists and turns Almodóvar takes in “Parallel Mothers,” suffice it to say that they are mind-boggling.
But you shouldn’t waste any more time and start this Parallel Mothers quiz.
“Parallel Mothers” is a film that never goes overboard with the soapy elements of its script, and its propulsive and string-heavy score by frequent collaborator Alberto Iglesias, which at times sounds like a horror film, never goes overboard with the goofiness of its story or its characters. Cruz is radiant and earthy, sexy and funny in her role as Janis, and because she is so gifted and completely on Almodovar’s wavelength, she manages to maintain an emotional connection with the audience throughout her character’s extreme highs and lows. Cruz is a revelation in this film. On the other hand, Smit shines in a more understated manner in his lower-key part, where he forms an endearing bond with Cruz on many different levels. Despite the fact that Ana is not nearly as enthusiastic about becoming a mother as Janis, her maternal instincts develop in ways that are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Early and often, Janis assures Ana that “everything will work out.” Her bright optimism permeates every aspect of her life, including the way she dresses and the way she decorates. The vibrant shade of red we see all over her, from her cardigan and camera bag to her stroller and Baby Bjorn, is such an Almodovar trademark that they should create a nail polish line in his honor, according to the actress. (Several of the director’s longtime collaborators, including production designer Antxón Gómez and cinematographer José Luis Alcaine, return to lend a chic and dramatic look to “Parallel Mothers,” including the film’s cinematographer.)
Parallel Mothers Quiz
Rossy de Palma (“Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown,” “Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!”) is one of Almodóvar’s favorite actors, and it wouldn’t be an Almodóvar film if he didn’t appear. Her character, Elena, is Janis’ best friend, and she comes swooping into her hospital room in a Technicolor-plaid trench coat, offering no-nonsense support and advice to the struggling young woman. Anita’s mother, Teresa (Aitana Sánchez-Gijón), is on the other end of the spectrum: she’s an obnoxious actress who only seems to be happy when she’s bragging about how well she did in an audition (although her transformation is one of the film’s many revelations).
Also, you will find out which character are you in this Parallel Mothers quiz.
As the historical themes of the film emerge, all of these women, as well as a slew of others, find themselves intertwined. Finally, Almodóvar brings to light snippets of conversation about how the Spanish Civil War interrupted and devastated countless lives, which he had interspersed throughout the film. These families are still dealing with the repercussions of the tragedies they have endured decades after the fact. It’s a large and emotionally charged subject for Almodóvar to grapple with, and some of the transitions may feel a little awkward at times throughout the film. By approaching this subject through the lens of a more personal and relatable story of motherhood and friendship, he makes it more accessible to the general public.
About the quiz
Like Almodóvar has performed a magic trick on us, we are lulled into familiarity with his usual performers, colors, and themes before being taken by surprise with what he really wishes to say. In spite of its high-concept, dramatic premise, “Parallel Mothers” eventually reveals that it has much more on its mind and in its heart than it appears on the surface.
Also, you must try to play this Parallel Mothers quiz.
The film is currently showing in theaters.
For more personality quizzes check this: Venom Quiz.
