Director Salvador Mallo (Banderas) is so preoccupied by various physiological and psychological ailments that he’s put his career on hold. Then a retrospective of his work leads him not only to remember his past, but to contact the long-estranged lead actor of an early seminal work... a troubled reunion with unexpected, fateful consequences.

Almodóvar, who also wrote the screenplay, is here at his most mature and reflective, exploring the lore of desire, creativity, addiction and memory through a single, somewhat self-centred character. Bold in its narrative structure, restrained yet expressive in its colours and compositions, and with intense, naturalistic performances, this is exemplary film artistry.

Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light and Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans represent two self-reflective love letters to film from industry giants, told through film itself. In anticipation of both releases, QFT brings you three films that celebrate the love for the movies and those who make them. Also screening: Cinema Paradiso and Sunset Boulevard.