Almódovar unfolds this convoluted plot with zig-zagging surrealism and a careening, sordidly erotic energy that effectively undermines the culturally institutionalized repression targeted by the filmmaker.

The film is fiercely funny, executed in a reckless, raucous rage by the most wantonly gifted new filmmaker on the international scene. Almódovar relishes mocking his country's sacred cows.

If Blue Velvet raised eyebrows, Matador will have some moviegoers blinking in disbelief.

Pedro Almodóvar transforms Italian giallo, bullfighting, and melodrama into one of the most perverse, sensual, and fascinating films in his entire filmography. [Full review in Spanish]