The philosophy professor Ramón (Darío Grandinetti) kidnaps his former wife and psychiatrist, Laura (Goya Toledo), locking her in the basement of his house tied to a chair, gagged and watching a video where he confesses nineteen murders. He proposes Laura to play a game of association of words, telling her that if she wins, he will let her go; otherwise he would push her eye out with a spoon. The Chief of Police Espinosa (Fernando Guillén) and Detective Sánchez (Eric Bonicatto) bring Ramón to the precinct to give his statement and explanations about the disappearance of Laura."Palabras Encadenadas" is a dark and complex thriller with an outstanding performance of Darío Grandinetti in the role of one of the scariest psychotic serial killers of the cinema history. However, the story has many twists, becomes confused and I need to see this movie again paying attention to details to be sure whether there are many plot holes and flaws or the writer is a genius. For example, was the message in the answering machine an edition of Laura words while playing the "words game"? If so, it is incredibly smart. Is Ramón really a serial killer or not? How can the police ignore eighteen murders associated with his confession? Or was his intention only revenge against Laura? Who sent the videotapes to the police? The relationship of Ramón and his mother is also not well explained. I liked this thriller but at least for me there are many points that are not clear. My vote is seven.Title (Brazil): "Jogo de Palavras" ("Game of Words")

I am a big fan of being scared whilst watching films. That's why "Killing Words" was so appealing not only because of the r18 certificate but also because the cover had a chilling beckoning that drew me towards it.The film started slowly however as the story unfolded it could only be compared to the ranks of the sixth sense with the twist that was only revealed at the very end after drawing me deep into it's chilling premise.Beautifully directed with nothing spelled out blatantly which keeps the element of surprise and the characters are both beautifully acted and masterfully written.An intense directing style which doesn't always need a fast pace to enthrall but simply keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what the hell is going to happen next.You will draw your own conclusions as to the ending of this film.But you will be wrong.A must see - Ash out.

The previous reviewer pretty much said what I wanted to say: "Killing Words" is a difficult film to categorize, but if you have to place it under one genre, it's probably what they call a "mind-f**k". Twist upon twist upon twist - that's how this film proceeds. It constantly plays with your perceptions; just when you thing you've figured it all out, it proves you wrong. There are only four characters, and they are all effectively performed (and yes: Goya Toledo IS a sensual woman). The film is also stylishly directed and photographed. One minor point: the word game that Grandinetti and Toledo frequently play won't mean much to non-Spanish-speaking audiences. But Spanish is such a pleasant language to listen to anyway that this doesn't matter much. (**1/2)

This film is the finest effort of all parties involved. Pure, unpretentious, riveting. This movie should remain a symbol of the extraordinary passion of Spanish filmmakers and actors. For non-native speakers, very little spanish language is needed to understand the action of the movie, such is the skill of Mana, Grandinetti, and Toledo, who proves so skillful in her presentation of Laura that she may perhaps stunt herself for a while. Not even Grandinetti's amazing performance in Hable Con Ella can match his portrayal of a sexy, vulnerable, completely horrifying villain in Palabras Encadenas.