"Volver" opens at the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines on Monday, March 5, for a one-week engagement.

This film is directed by Pedro Almodovar and won awards at last year's Cannes Film Festival for best script and best ensemble cast.

Starring Penelope Cruz as Raimunda, "Volver" (translates "to return"), moves back and forth between an urban neighborhood in Madrid and a village in the Spanish countryside.

Raimundo plays a woman with multiple complications in her life. One is that her husband is murdered by another family member, and she decides to literally put the "chill" on his body.

Those familiar with Almodovar's wonderful movies will recognize his use of bright colors and bold women who confront the ups and downs of life with energy and endurance.

His view of life seamlessly incorporates the ghost of Raimundo's mother Irene in a tale that includes the murder of Raimundo's husband, success in the restaurant business, the launching of daughters, and day-to-day difficulties that permeate his characters' lives.

Only Almodovar can tell this story with humor and a buoyant liveliness that makes the film inviting rather than dreary.

"Volver" will be shown Monday, March 5, through Sunday, March 11, at 7:30 p.m. It will also be shown at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The film is in Spanish with English subtitles. It is rated R (violence, sexual content and language) and runs 120 minutes.

The Sunrise Theater is located at 250 NW Broad Street and ticket prices are $7 for adults, $6 for matinees, and $5 for children under 12.

Sparkling water, beer, wine, sodas, candy and nuts, and delicious popcorn with real butter are available.

Movies at the Sunrise are commercial free.

Contact the theater at 910-692-3611 or www.sunrisetheater. com