This version of the Merimee classic uses rehearsals for a flamenco version of Bizet's opera (not unlike director Saura's previous BLOOD WEDDING) as the setting for an identical, parallel storyline.
Laura del Sol (THE HIT) plays Carmen, a fiery actress-dancer who is slated to play her namesake despite her lack of experience. Antonio Gades (BLOOD WEDDING) is the choreographer who falls in love with her. The dance sequences are superb, as expected, with the added plus of del Sol's eroticism and
Christina Hoyos's explosive performance as Carmen's rival. Saura's acclaimed dance trilogy (the third film is EL AMOR BRUJO), abetted by Antonio Gades's incendiary choreography, are must-sees for dance enthusiasts. Others may greet CARMEN with mixed emotions. But meanwhile, what other version
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