The film also explores the theme of control and power dynamics. Manuel's actions are motivated by a desire to regain control over his life, which he feels has been taken away from him. However, his obsession with Vera ultimately leads to a loss of control, as she begins to resist and rebel against him.

Manuel kidnaps a young woman named Vera (played by Cecilia Roth), who bears a striking resemblance to his daughter. He subjects Vera to extensive plastic surgery to transform her into a perfect replica of Estela. As Vera undergoes the transformation, she becomes a prisoner in Manuel's house, forced to adapt to her new identity.

The film tells the story of Dr. Manuel Ferrier (played by Antonio Banderas), a renowned plastic surgeon who lives in Madrid with his wife, Norma (played by Penélope Cruz), and their son. After a tragic accident, Manuel's life takes a dark turn, and he becomes obsessed with the idea of saving his daughter, Estela (played by Blanca Suárez), who was severely burned in a car accident and is now in a vegetative state.