Pedro Pascal and Pedro Almodóvar Team Up for a Groundbreaking Western: “Strange Way of Life”
Pedro Pascal, known for his versatile roles and dynamic performances, is gracing 2023 with his presence in a new short film, “Strange Way of Life,” a Western that promises to be anything but typical. This film is the latest masterpiece from Oscar-winning Spanish writer-director Pedro Almodóvar, marking his first short since 2020’s “The Human Voice,” which was his English-language debut.
Almodóvar’s Foray into the Western Genre
Almodóvar, renowned for his acclaimed feature films like “All About My Mother,” “Talk to Her,” and “Volver,” is venturing into the Western genre, applying his successful English-language filmmaking approach to create a piece that is already creating a buzz in the cinematic world. Almodóvar’s films are celebrated for their profound exploration of themes such as queerness, masculinity, and isolation, and “Strange Way of Life” is anticipated to follow suit.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film stars Hollywood heavyweights Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal, who has had a dominating presence on television in 2023 with the debut of HBO’s “The Last of Us” and the release of “The Mandalorian” season 3. This short film is a testament to Pascal’s expansive acting prowess, proving that he is not just a television star but also a formidable force on the big screen.
A Unique Take on Westerns
“Strange Way of Life” is not just another Western; it is a deeply personal, character-driven film. Pascal portrays a gunslinger, Silva, who, after a 25-year gap, reunites with Sheriff Jake, played by Ethan Hawke. The film is not about battles against the undead or power-hungry warlords but focuses on the reunion of these two characters and the nostalgia that ensues.
Almodóvar has described the film as a “queer Western,” emphasizing the love between the two male characters. This exploration of masculinity and queerness in a genre traditionally steeped in machismo is generating significant buzz and allowing Almodóvar’s nuanced exploration to reach a wider audience.
Almodóvar’s Vision Realized
This film is particularly significant for Almodóvar, as he had previously passed on directing 2005’s “Brokeback Mountain,” feeling he couldn’t realize his vision for the adaptation at the time. “Strange Way of Life” is dubbed by the director as his “answer to Brokeback Mountain,” allowing him to finally create the queer Western he had envisioned.
Where to Catch “Strange Way of Life”
The film made its debut at Cannes in May 2023 and had its North America premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. It will receive a limited release in the U.S. on October 4, initially in theaters in New York and Los Angeles, before appearing in theaters nationwide on October 6. While a U.S. streaming date is yet to be set, it will debut on MUBI in certain regions, including Italy and Latin America, on October 20, 2023.
“Strange Way of Life” is more than just a film; it’s a groundbreaking exploration of themes rarely touched upon in the Western genre. With a star-studded cast and a director known for his profound and nuanced storytelling, this short film is set to leave a lasting impact on its audience, redefining perceptions of love and masculinity within the genre. Whether you’re a fan of Pedro Pascal, Pedro Almodóvar, or just someone who appreciates meaningful cinema, “Strange Way of Life” is a must-watch. Keep an eye out for its release and experience a Western like never before.
