Aug. 17, 2011|Spain|120 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;Horror
Description: The Skin I Live In (2011) is a gripping film that delves into the life of Robert Ledgard, a plastic surgeon who develops an artificial skin called “GAL,” resistant to burns and insect bites. Initially tested on mice, Robert reveals he has conducted illegal transgenic experiments on humans during a medical symposium, leading to the suspension of his research.
On his secluded estate, Robert keeps a young woman named Vera captive with the help of his servant Marilia. To maintain secrecy after his experiments are halted, Robert asks Marilia to dismiss the other staff. Meanwhile, Marilia’s estranged son Zeca, a criminal who has just committed a robbery, arrives in a tiger costume seeking refuge. Upon seeing Vera on the security cameras, Zeca demands to meet her, overpowers Marilia, and rapes Vera. Robert returns, kills Zeca, and disposes of his body.
Later, Marilia reveals to Vera that she is the mother of both Zeca and Robert by different fathers. Robert was raised by Marilia after being adopted by her employers, while Zeca left to live a life of crime. Years earlier, Zeca had run off with Robert’s wife, Gal, but they were involved in a car accident that left Gal severely burned. Zeca fled the scene, leaving Gal for dead, but Robert rescued her. Unable to cope with her disfigurement, Gal lived in darkness and later committed suicide after seeing her reflection. Zeca’s attack on Vera was driven by his mistaken belief that she was Gal.
The film explores themes of obsession, identity, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Cast director: Pedro Almodóvar
Cast actor: Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, Marisa Paredes, Jan Cornet, Roberto Álamo, Eduard Fernández, José Gómez, Blanca Suárez, Susi Sánchez, Bárbara Lennie
Original name: La piel que habito