Pedro Almodóvar, the renowned Spanish filmmaker, has always been a devoted fan of Western movies. Surprisingly, he had never made one himself, until now. In addition, Almodóvar had only dabbled in directing English-language films, with the exception of his 2020 short film, “The Human Voice,” starring Tilda Swinton. However, his latest movie, “Strange Way of Life,” is a short 31-minute film that finally allowed him to explore the Western genre in English. It serves as a beautiful tribute to the great directors who pioneered the genre, but with Almodóvar’s unique touch.
Recently, Almodóvar premiered “Strange Way of Life” at the Cannes Film Festival. While he may have been flattered by the attention, the ghosts of legendary Western directors such as John Ford, Howard Hawks, and Sam Peckinpah might be surprised by the unexpected twist that this 73-year-old fanboy has brought to the genre. Although Almodóvar pays homage to these directors in various ways, the plot of his film is something entirely different from their classics.
In “Strange Way of Life,” Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal portray former lovers who reunite after 25 years for a passionate night of love and desire. Hawke plays Sheriff Jake, a former hired gunfighter, while Pascal portrays Silva, a Mexican-born man who tracks him down. They once dreamed of living together on the same ranch, but life took them on separate paths. When Jake visits Silva for a catch-up, their evening takes an unexpected turn as they engage in a romantic encounter. However, the next morning, Jake’s demeanor changes, and he resumes his duty as a sheriff, determined to find someone believed to be Silva’s son, Joe, who is wanted for murder. Despite Silva’s attempts to dissuade him, Jake remains steadfast in his pursuit. The tension escalates when Joe appears at Silva’s place.
Almodóvar had previously considered making his English-language debut with an adaptation of “Brokeback Mountain.” However, he felt that the film did not fit the Western genre since the main characters were shepherds, not cowboys. Therefore, he believes that “Strange Way of Life” is revolutionary in its own quiet way, as it pays homage to Westerns while exploring new territory.
Although the film tastefully portrays the aftermath of their passionate night, the importance lies in Almodóvar’s focus on their emotional connection. The dialogue-driven story reveals why they grew apart but also highlights why they were meant for each other. Hawke’s stoic and cool portrayal contrasts with Pascal’s open and warm performance, creating a compelling dynamic. In just half an hour, both actors bring authenticity and depth to their characters and their relationship. Almodóvar skillfully conveys their story through body language, sparing the need for excessive exposition. This film belongs to Hawke and Pascal, with brief appearances from a supporting cast that includes a singer setting the tone and a trio of prostitutes reminiscent of a scene from Howard Hawks’ “El Dorado.”
Hawke and Pascal deliver such remarkable performances that one can easily imagine them starring in Westerns from the ’50s and ’60s. Watching “Strange Way of Life,” I couldn’t help but think of a remake of the 1962 film “Ride the High Country,” which featured aging cowboys Joel McCrea and Randolph Scott.
Special mention must be made of the enchanting musical score by Alberto Iglesias, a regular collaborator of Almodóvar. Despite the film being shot in Almeira, Spain, known as Sergio Leone country, Iglesias wisely avoids imitating Ennio Morricone. The music sets the nostalgic and emotional tone of the film, complemented by the production design and costumes that include a direct homage to James Stewart in Anthony Mann’s “Bend of the River.”
Almodóvar’s intention with “Strange Way of Life” is not to rewrite the rules of Westerns but to add a new chapter that feels just right, thanks in large part to the exceptional performances of Hawke and Pascal. The film, produced by Augustin Almodóvar, is titled “Strange Way of Life” and has been featured in the Special Screenings category at the Cannes Film Festival. It is distributed by Sony Pictures Classics.
