Some women become “bossy” not because of their choice, but because of specific circumstances. That includes protagonist of Woman on Top, 2000 romantic comedy directed by Fina Torres. The plot begins in Brazilian state of Bahia where Isabella Oliveira (played by Penelope Cruz) stands among local beauties due to her great cooking talent. She is, on the other hand, afflicted by terrible motion sickness that goes away only if she takes control of things – using stairs instead of elevators, driving and being on top when having sex with her husband Toninho (played by Murilo Benicio). His macho pride is hurt because of it and, bored with same sexual position, tries alternatives in affair with different women. When Isabella catches him in the act, she decides to leave him and go to San Francisco where her black childhood friend lives as transsexual named Monica Jones (played by Harold Perrineau Jr.). After initial failures to get proper job, she begins to give cooking lessons. During one of the lectures she gets noticed by television producer Frank Lloyd (played by Mark Feuerstein) who offers her cooking show on local station. She accepts and the show becomes popular. In the meantime, Toninho decides to bring Isabella back, comes to San Francisco and, much to his surprise, finds his wife as television star.
Although at first glance looks like “high concept” romantic comedy typical for Hollywood, Woman on Top is actually something quite different. The reason might be found in authenticity and semi-autobiographical elements used by Brazilian writer Vera Blasi. Another reason is unquestionably feminist tone of the film that goes beyond the title and features female protagonist who is “on top” literally and figuratively. But the most refreshing is clearly Latin American flavour of the film that makes it refreshing. Venezuelan director Fina Torres unabashedly finds inspiration in Like Water for Chocolate and celebration of culinary skills is mixed with bits of fantasy and magic realism. All this creates atmosphere which is both surreal and refreshing. This also makes predictability of the plot in the second half more digestible. The cast is very good and that includes Spanish star Penelope Cruz who is quite charming in main role, and same can be said of Harold Perrineau Jr. Veteran Argentine composer Luis Bacalov adds very effective music score that would make this film pleasing to the ears as well to the eyes. Although not to intelligent, Woman on Top has all the proper ingredients for entertaining romantic comedy.
RATING: 6/10 (++)
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