Broken Embraces

Broken Embraces is the terrific new film by Pedro Almodovar. And when you see one of this films you know that you are seeing real cinema.

The film is the story of Mateo Blanco/Harry Caine (Lluis Homar). Yes, he is the same man. Something in his life made him chose a second name. Although many critics have revealed the plot I do not want to. It spoils things for those who have not seen it. Playing into the story is a woman named Lena (Penelope Cruz) who Mateo/Harry becomes involved in. She is the mistress of a very wealthy man named Ernesto Martel (Jose Luis Gomez). Mateo/Harry has a very devoted and over protective agent named Judit Garcia (Blanca Portillo). Her son Diego (Tomar Novar) helps Mateo/Harry out with his work. And the mysterious Ray X (Ruben Ochandiano) wants to work with our protagonist as well.

How all of these characters fit together is for you to find out. The film is a wonderful noir with melodrama running throughout. There is something old fashioned about the film. Well, for one thing there are no special effects. You need to pay attention to the details or you might miss something. The film is intelligent, suspenseful and great to look at. And those are the ingredients that make up an Almodovar film. Cruz shines as Lena but the whole cast is great. It is truly an ensemble piece. The great Angela Molina turns up as Lena's mother.

So do yourself a favor and see this film. Foreign films are not doing well these days. People are lazy and do not want to read subtitles. So please support as many (good) foreign films as you can.