Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown Poster

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown 1988

★ 7.4987 votes88 min📅 1988-03-25

"A comedy about someone you know."

Pedro Almodóvar's Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) is a vibrant, chaotic comedy-drama that twists heartbreak into hilarious chaos.

Director: Pedro Almodóvar

Cast

Carmen Maura
Carmen Maura
Pepa
Antonio Banderas
Antonio Banderas
Carlos
Julieta Serrano
Julieta Serrano
Lucía
María Barranco
María Barranco
Candela
Rossy de Palma
Rossy de Palma
Marisa
Kiti Mánver
Kiti Mánver
Paulina Morales
Guillermo Montesinos
Guillermo Montesinos
Taxi Driver
Chus Lampreave
Chus Lampreave
Jehovah's Witness Goalkeeper
Eduardo Calvo
Eduardo Calvo
Lucía's Father
Loles León
Loles León
Secretary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) about?

The film follows Pepa, a woman whose life spirals into comedic chaos after her lover abruptly abandons her. As she navigates a series of increasingly absurd encounters, her story intertwines with the lives of her quirky neighbors and friends, all of whom bring their own brand of madness to the mix.

Who directed Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown?

Pedro Almodóvar directed the film, blending dark humor and dramatic tension in his signature style.

Who stars in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown?

The film features Carmen Maura, Antonio Banderas, Julieta Serrano, María Barranco, and Rossy de Palma in standout roles.

Is Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) worth watching?

With its sharp wit, vibrant energy, and standout performances, this film is a must-watch for fans of Almodóvar's work or anyone craving a darkly comedic take on love and chaos. Its runtime is tight at 88 minutes, making it a perfect pick for a lively, thought-provoking movie night.

How long is Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown?

The film runs for 88 minutes, offering a concise yet packed cinematic experience.

🎥 Trailer

About Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) — Almodóvar's explosive comedy-drama with Carmen Maura

Pedro Almodóvar's Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988) is a vibrant, chaotic comedy-drama that twists heartbreak into hilarious chaos. When Pepa's lover abruptly leaves her, her once-orderly life unravels in spectacular fashion, dragging her eccentric neighbors and acquaintances into a whirlwind of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and explosive confrontations. With razor-sharp wit and a dash of melodrama, Almodóvar crafts a story where every character is teetering on the edge—of sanity, love, or just a really bad day. The film's feverish energy and dark humor make it a standout in Spanish cinema, blending relatable heartache with the absurd in a way that feels both deeply personal and wildly entertaining.

Carmen Maura shines as Pepa, embodying the film's frenetic yet poignant spirit. Alongside Antonio Banderas and Julieta Serrano, she delivers performances that balance hysteria and heart, grounding the film's madness in raw emotion. The genre-defying mix of comedy and drama keeps the tone unpredictable, while Almodóvar's signature style infuses every scene with bold colors, eccentric characters, and dialogue that crackles with life. Whether you're drawn in by the promise of laughter or the pull of drama, this film delivers a rollercoaster ride you won't soon forget.