¡Buen viaje, excelencia!

I saw this movie because of insomnia - just woke up in night, turned on TV - and there it was. Must say, I was quite charmed and watched it with great interest. Do not know so much about Spanish history but the story seemed to be quite universal- a depiction of autocratic ruler's last days, when he is unable to perceive reality adequately, but still is been kept firm for public eye because he is symbol of state and the inner circle of his companions want the leader to look good for their own needs. The depiction of Franco in this movie reminded me late Brezhnev, Soviet leader who slowly sank in dementia, but was not allowed to retire because of political reasons. The movie can be considered a comedy in the same sense as Buñuel's last films can - bitter irony combined with surrealistic approach.