Law of Desire: An Unpredictable Tango

It’s not every day that you sit down to watch an Almodóvar film and come out the other side feeling like you’ve just experienced a chaotic, emotional dance. “Law of Desire” is exactly that and more—a whirlwind of love, obsession, and chaos that only Pedro Almodóvar could choreograph. With actors like Antonio Banderas and Carmen Maura fronting this cinematographic storm, it’s hard not to be completely taken over by their performances.

Now, let me tell you, I was actually introduced to this film by accident. It was back in the 90s, a late August evening. I remember because I’d just come back from fishing in my uncle’s old summer house in Västerbotten. My sister had borrowed a VHS from a friend, and instead of the intended comedy, there it was—”Law of Desire.” At first, I was confused. But oh boy, was I hooked.

The film kicks off with an energy that’s almost palpable. Banderas, with his smoldering eyes and unhinged intensity, plays a role so different from the suave characters we’d see him portray later in Hollywood. You wouldn’t expect less from an Almodóvar production, that cheeky rascal. The music, the colors, the tension—it just draws you in from the get-go.

But it’s not all roses and sunshine. There’s a chaos to the narrative, a sort of delirium that might not sit well with everyone. Some might find it a bit too scattered or unpredictable. To be honest, even I had my moments of “what on earth?” But maybe that’s the beauty. It makes you feel something intensely, just like the first bite of a late summer lingonberry—sharp and sweet.

For anyone who hasn’t seen it yet, do yourself a favour on a rainy Wednesday evening. Grab a cold soda and bunker down. Trust me, you won’t regret joining in on this wild, passionate ride—I promise.

Check the trailer below