What is volver?

Volver: An Overview

Volver (Spanish for "To Return") is a 2006 Spanish comedy-drama film directed by Pedro Almodóvar, starring Penélope Cruz. The film deals with themes of family, death, and female solidarity, set against the backdrop of La Mancha, Spain.

Key Themes:

• Family: Volver explores the complex relationships within a family, particularly between mothers and daughters, and sisters. It examines how past traumas and secrets can impact these relationships.
• Death: The film grapples with the acceptance of death and how communities cope with loss. There is an exploration of grief, mourning rituals, and the ways in which the dead continue to influence the lives of the living.
• Female Solidarity: The film celebrates the strength and resilience of women, showing how they support and protect each other in times of hardship.
• Secrets: Hidden secrets and unresolved issues are central to the plot of Volver, driving the narrative forward and creating tension within the family.

Plot Summary (Brief):

Raimunda (Penélope Cruz) is a working-class woman in Madrid who is constantly dealing with difficult situations. Her life takes a strange turn when her aunt dies and her sister Sole discovers their mother's "ghost" is haunting the family home. This leads to the uncovering of long-buried family secrets.

Significance:

Volver is considered one of Almodóvar's best films, praised for its strong female characters, vibrant visuals, and poignant exploration of universal themes. It received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including nominations for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actress (for Cruz).