Best-Reviewed Spanish-Language Movies 2019

Critics Consensus: Pain and Glory finds writer-director Pedro Almodóvar drawing on his own life to rewarding effect -- and honoring his craft as only a master filmmaker can.

Synopsis: An aging Spanish film director in the middle of a creative crisis revisits memorable events of his past.

Starring: Antonio Banderas, Asier Etxeandia, Penélope Cruz, Leonardo Sbaraglia

Directed By: Pedro Almodóvar

Critics Consensus: Birds of Passage traces the familiar arc of the drug crime thriller from a different direction that's as visually absorbing as it is hard-hitting.

Synopsis: The origins of the Colombian drug trade, as seen through the eyes of an indigenous Wayuu family that becomes involved in the booming business of... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Carmina Martínez, Natalia Reyes, José Acosta, Jhon Narváez

Directed By: Cristina Gallego, Ciro Guerra

Critics Consensus: The Chambermaid uses one woman's experiences to take audiences inside a life -- and a culture -- that's as bracingly unique as it is hauntingly relatable.

Synopsis: A young chambermaid working in one of the most luxurious hotels in Mexico City enrolls in the hotel's adult education program to help improve her... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Gabriela Cartol, Teresa Sánchez, Agustina Quinci, Alan Uribe

Directed By: Lila Avilés

Critics Consensus: Tigers Are Not Afraid draws on childhood trauma for a story that deftly blends magical fantasy and hard-hitting realism - and leaves a lingering impact.

Synopsis: When a girl's mother disappears leaving her on her own, she joins a gang of street children, leading to a tragic chain of events.

Starring: Paola Lara, Ianis Guerrero, Rodrigo Cortés, Hanssel Casillas

Directed By: Issa López

Critics Consensus: Led by a standout performance from Ana Brun, The Heiresses takes a thoroughly compelling look at lives little explored by mainstream cinema.

Synopsis: A woman who lost her fortune befriends a younger woman.

Starring: Ana Brun, Margarita Irun, Ana Ivanova, Nilda Gonzalez

Directed By: Marcelo Martinessi