As if Franco Never Existed: Ideology in Pedro Almodóvar’s Films

Ewa Mazierska

Abstract

Pedro Almodóvar used to say that he made films as if Franco had never existed. Mazierska argues that Almodóvar makes films as if he entirely ignored him. Although he makes no direct references to Spain’s history of the years 1939-1975, Franco’s past exercises an influence on the situation of his heroes, especially working-class women. Mazierska points to film episodes showing that the Spanish director rejects Franco’s „articles of faith” proclaiming superiority of men or condemning homosexuality. Despite this it is hard to identify his attitude toward women and gays, and his political message. Contrary to some critical opinions that his films’ weakness lies in indifference to key social issues, Mazierska states that the attitude confirms the fact that Almodóvar is sickened both by the precept to conform to the political line, any ideology or moral Absolute. She thinks that Almodóvar is the victim of critics, who better evaluate directors engaged in moral issues, and stresses that what is worthy of attention is his tender attitude toward bad quality art. He suspects seriousness and loftiness, the values identified with classical art, in cheap feelings and behaviour. The sublimation of vulgarity causes depreciation of what is serious, that is politics, religion, ideology and high art.