This film needs to be watched a few times to make sense of the deep themes in this theme. It has a similar weight and depth to previous films of his such as Volver. The concept of origins, birth and death, uncovering hidden histories and the difficulty of living with a questionable legacy.
It seems to ask questions of contemporary Spain and serves as a snapshot of the national mood. How does it come to terms with its difficult history while still living in the present era? A thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film shot in his signature style.