ipzama The true story of a young man in the post Spanish War years in Madrid (Sanz), living between the love to his fiancee (Verdu) and the sexual dependence on his landlord (Abril) is used by Vicente Aranda to make another film in which sex and passion are the cause of the plot.The film has not a bad introduction of characters but maybe they seem distant; and it is this distance (time and habits) and the lack of script what impedes (obviously) to get involved in the story.The usual support that Aranda makes on explicit sex (although it is infantile in these years of XXI century) does not contribute to story and the plot is told in a fast way. This puts the film far away from the thriller it pretend to be.A brief and not intense plot and a foreseeable ending makes this film recommendable only if you are shackled to your sofa.Rating: 3/10.

Insp. Clouzot A love triangle.A strong, courageous young girl who works hard as a maid and loves a young soldier. She saves all what she earns to marry him and get started in life. She is innocent with strong morals yet not stupid. She is a typical figure of SPain 50 years ago.A young soldier. A weak character. Lazy, no clear morals. He is looking for good deals in life. He is influencable and selfish. His relationship with other minor characters (the commanding officer) suggests that he is a coward.A mature woman who takes part in shady deals as a way of life. She has known many men before. She is lonely and looking for sexual experiences. The film is fairly sensual. The characters are plausible. The acting is good.My vote: 8 / 10.

safado "Amantes" is a beautifully shot film with 3 gorgeous stars in the lead roles.The central triangle is reminiscent of another fine film, 1951's "A Place in the Sun," which was also based on a true story.The final scene, with Paco searching for Louisa at the train station, is particuarly striking. It will stick in my memory for a long time.

heckles Story of a young cadet who falls for a landlady that 1950's Spain gave him no preparation for. The attempt of his previously innocent fiance to win her man back from Abril's character are both erotic and heartbreaking, and the resolution is a devastator. The best film from Spain I've seen.