'Jamón, Jamón', made in typical Bigas Luna style, is an amusing mindf**k of an erotic comedy. So one can easily expect a lot of shagging, nudity, passion and vulgarity in this entertaining satire. The melodramatic acting goes totally in sync with the story that is full of playful sarcasm. Luna toys with ideas by 'making fun' of many aspects of the Spanish culture. His actors don't shy away from baring it all sans inhibition. Javier Bardem and Jordi Molla are very good as two lovers competing with each other. Stefania Sandrelli plays the part of a horny manipulative MILF very well and Anna Galiena is deliciously hot. However, it is the then 18-year-old Penelope Cruz who steals the show by displaying innocence and sensuality with equal doze. Bigas Luna also references to several movies that clearly have inspired him like Ken Russell's 'Women in Love'. In addition, there are numerous underlying subtexts concerning taboo themes such as incest and bestiality. 'Jamón, Jamón' clearly isn't everyone's cup of tea and many conservatives might find it downright offensive. But someone who might be interested in a cinematic carnal entertainment satire ought to see this.
Review of Jamón, Jamón
