The Effect of Changing Perspectives: A Sequence Analysis from 'Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown' Olivia Finn Vega College

In Pedro Almodóvar’s 1988 film, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, stylistic elements and a unique cinematographic style contribute to the slightly absurd narrative, forming a distinct, surreal world in which the characters exist. The plot centers around Pepa, a voice actor in the midst of an emotional crisis, following the end of her relationship with the suave actor, Iván. Her actions become increasingly manic as the film progresses while she works to untangle the connections between Iván, his son, and his former and present lovers. In one sequence near the middle of the film a series of near-meetings are portrayed, highlighting the prevalent themes of coincidence and confusion. Through the editing techniques of varied camera angles and point of view shots, Almodóvar conveys a sense of human interconnectivity and suggests the innate humor behind melodramatic behavior.

The cinematography shifts point of view often, but the predominant focus is on Pepa, emphasizing her role as a main character. The sequence begins with a medium close-up shot of Iván standing in the phone booth outside of Pepa’s apartment building. His isolated position in the booth mirrors his emotionally distant, disloyal actions. Rather than speak in...