I often wondered why he was so successful with women, and younger women, being old and not that good-looking in my opinion.
But of course the answer is he just knows how to seduce.
And "Pepa" describes him so well. He never argues, fights or criticizes. He apologizes and he keeps saying "yes my dear" to anything. :)
This kind of guy is desperately frustrating and dangerous. Quite right can he send you straight into a "nervous breakdown".
XD
You are so right. Men like Ivan are frustrating and dangerous!! I've known men like him, and to me Pepa's actions don't seem all that crazy...these men will drive you the verge!
shareI thought it was hilarious/sad the way he always made it sound in his messages like he was searching for her and kept missing her -- like it was all her fault! That IS crazy-making. His non-stop lies and misperceptions and deceptions make other people feel like they are missing reality. Ivan is EVIL.
And a 'fraidy cat.
well, I think that's the point of the whole movie. Ivan seduces women with his smooth sweet talk, telling women what they want to hear and driving them mad. His first wife obviously became insane, Pepa is on the verge and Paulina is his next victim. Through out the movie you see how Pepa switches her emotions and becomes this strong, independent woman that sees Ivan for who he really is. It's brilliantly portrayed by Carmen Maura. Brilliant!!
In my opinion this movie has little to do with Ivan and more to do with women being empowered, taking control of their lives and knowing they don't need a man to find happiness. No doubt Mr Almodovar was way ahead of his time considering the movie was done in the 80's and in Spain (which was still very "machista" at the time)
As you can tell I am a true fan of this movie :)
I thought the character of Ivan was great, He is not hateful stereotypical womaniser, he is just flawed. OK he is a dirty old dog lol but he was really likeable to me. But I liked him because I like Fernando Guillen, I'm aware he is a well respected actor in his native Espana with many many credits to his name.
I became aware of him as a young boy- I'm English born but my father is Irish and my mother is Spanish-Irish-- as my grandfather (also a Guillen) introduced me to many films, especially historical films and satiated my interest in Catalan/Spanish cinema.
I'm really close to my grandad and liked to learn about our Spanish history but I asdmit my spanish is poor,lol, could be better.# Anyway I love the character of Ivan, mainly because of the charm and old fashioned chivalry he has.My favourite part of the film is the beginning when he does the monologue charming each woman who passes. I love that scene.
"You're weak Ivan"
"Yes sweetheart"
"Don't agree with me!"
"but you're right"
"Sometimes I like to be wrong!"