The Human Voice
The Human Voice

Movie spotlight

The Human Voice

2020
Movie
30 min
English

A woman watches time pass beside the suitcases of her ex-lover (who is supposed to come pick them up but never arrives) and a restless dog who doesn't understand that his master has abandoned him.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic78/100
Google Users79%
Director: Pedro AlmodóvarGenres: Drama, Short

Plot Summary

Based on Jean Cocteau's 1930 play of the same name, "The Human Voice" centers on a solitary woman (Tilda Swinton) in a sparsely decorated apartment. As she waits for her lover to pick up his bags before he leaves her forever, she paces, talks to her dog, and engages in a tumultuous, one-sided conversation with him over the telephone. The film is a poignant exploration of heartbreak, abandonment, and the desperate attempt to cling to a love that is already gone.

Critical Reception

Pedro Almodóvar's "The Human Voice" received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for Tilda Swinton's commanding performance. Critics praised the film's visual style, its emotional depth, and Almodóvar's masterful direction in adapting the classic play for a modern audience. While some noted its brevity, the consensus was that it was a powerful and affecting work, showcasing both Swinton's and Almodóvar's talents.

What Reviewers Say

  • Tilda Swinton delivers a tour-de-force performance, embodying the character's anguish and resilience.

  • Pedro Almodóvar masterfully crafts a visually stunning and emotionally resonant chamber piece.

  • The film is a poignant and concise exploration of heartbreak and the complexities of modern relationships.

Google audience: Audiences generally found the film to be a powerful and moving experience, with many highlighting Tilda Swinton's exceptional acting. Some viewers appreciated the short runtime and the intense emotional focus, while others felt it was perhaps too minimalist or abstract.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Tilda Swinton received significant praise and awards nominations for her performance.

Fun Fact

The film was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, with all safety protocols strictly adhered to, and its production was completed in just five days.

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