Mildred Pierce--Almodovar Style

As usual, Pedro Almodovar delivers with "Volver." Who knew that Penelope Cruz could actually act? And that I would be rooting for her to receive an Oscar nod? (Personal note: I have a soft spot for Pedro; I went into labor with my son while reading an epic NY Times profile on the director.) Although Almodovar has described the film as "Mildred Pierce" meets "Arsenic and Old Lace," the flick is more restrained in the best way possible.