Luis Buñuel

Viridiana Luis Buñuel

Winner of the Palme D'Or at Cannes in 1961, Bunuel's film is widely regarded as his masterpiece. Viridiana (Silvia Pinal) is a young religious novitiate who visits her last remaining relative, the wealthy Don Jaime (Fernando Rey), before she takes her vows. Don Jaime secretly harbours a desire for Viridiana, based on her striking resemblance to his wife - who died thirty years ago on their wedding night.

After making Viridiana wear the original wedding dress he attempts to rape her, but fails and commits suicide in a fit of guilt, leaving his huge estate to Viridiana and his son Jorge (Francisco Rabal). The virtuous Viridiana tries to help the local poor, but her idealistic deeds inevitably backfire. Bunuel's film mocks Spanish Catholism, holding it responsible for many social ills.

The film is often remembered for its parody of Leonardo's Last Supper, and was banned in both Spain and Italy.