Köttets lustar: A Saucy Slice of Life

Alright, let’s get into it. Pedro Almodóvar’s “Köttets lustar” (or “Live Flesh” if you’re not quite up on your Swedish) is a spicy Spanish melodrama, full of that vibrant, pulsing energy only Almodóvar can deliver. It’s got a cast to die for, with a young Javier Bardem before his Hollywood days and the fantastic Francesca Neri. You can almost hear the Spanish guitar strumming in the background as you watch it.

Watching this film felt a bit like being on a rollercoaster at Liseberg—unexpected twists, sudden drops, and a few moments when you’re not sure how you feel about the whole experience. It’s about passion, messed-up relationships, and a lot of questionable decisions, which sometimes hits a bit too close to home for comfort.

I remember seeing it first one chilly autumn evening in Stockholm—glad I had a massive bowl of popcorn in my lap ’cause stressing over the characters’ life choices sure makes a Swede hungry. There’s something about it that reminds me of sitting in my mormor’s (that’s ‘grandmother’ for the non-Swedes) cozy house, chatting about life. The same blend of warmth and unpredictability.

Now, Almodóvar’s films are known for their visual flair, and this one’s no different—colors that pop and scenes so full of life you can almost feel the Madrid heat on your skin. But I’m also struck by the sound design. The haunting music fits the film like a perfectly tailored suit.

The characters, meanwhile, are like people you meet at a Swedish crayfish party—colorful, perhaps a bit tipsy, and definitely not shy about crossing lines. It’s messy but oddly captivating. Maybe that’s what makes it so relatable because, let’s face it, we all have that bit of chaos in us.

Give it a go and let me know what you think. Maybe keep some Swedish candies at hand for comfort, just in case the drama hits hard.

Check the trailer below