Dark Habits Review: A Quirky Ride Through Nuns and Oddities

Oh boy, Dark Habits is something, isn’t it? Partly hilarious, partly wild, and entirely Pedro Almodóvar. This 1983 film did a number on me, leaving me perched between laughter and bewilderment. Almodóvar’s flair for the absurd is on full display here, featuring a bunch of nuns who are anything but typical.

The star of the show, Julieta Serrano, plays Mother Superior. And she’s definitely got a soft spot for an exotic lifestyle. I mean, who knew nuns had such unusual habits, right? That’s Pedro for ya—transforming something sacred into a colorful, madcap fest.

The movie scored a few giggles and left me nodding at his audacity. It’s like someone took an episode of “Las Vegas” and injected it with equal parts of The Muppet Show.

Watching it, I was teleported back to a quirky summer evening in the 80s, snuggled under the old orange-plastic lampshade in my kitchen. Remembering how we used to mix our own Sodastream drinks. Halfway through the movie, I actually swore I caught a whiff of that fizzy syrup.

Of course, the legendary Almodóvar directed this gem, and it’s got that signature vibrant touch. Take note of the standout supporting cast, like the ever-charming Carmen Maura, who never fails to bring that Spanish zest.

The film’s not without its flaws, though. Sometimes, the bizarreness drags a bit much, slapping you with what’s supposed to be satire – but it might feel more like a slap. Maybe a dolly-mix of sensibilities isn’t to everyone’s cinematic taste, but hey, doesn’t it spark a conversation?

So, next time you feel like diving headfirst into something kooky and colorful, give Dark Habits a whirl. It’s like sipping on Swedish glögg—you either love the spice or find it too punchy.

Check the trailer below