2. Pedro Almodovar
Almodovar might be the greatest stylist working in international cinema. His films are explosions of carefully constructed color and design, all brimming (or boiling over) with a certain amount of lust (sometimes just the darker side of it). Point is, you know when youre watching a film by Almodovar, no matter what genre he's working in. But while many of his films are based around family and romantic crises, Almodovar isnt afraid to go to some dark places either. 2004s Bad Education was a deep and moving reflection on how childhood sexual abuse can shatter lives as they grow, while 2011s The Skin I Live In explores obsession and revenge in the wake of personal tragedy. His films can be light and enjoyable or surprisingly heavy, and with such an extensive filmography, hes been able to dabble in just about everything over the years. Prolific and unique, Almodovar is one of the most important voices in international cinema. Start with: Either Talk to Her or Volver. I personally think Talk to Her is the better film, but Volver is an easier story to digest and enjoy.