Broken Embraces

Review by Anthony Morris

Director Pedro Almodovar is a name you can trust for two things: soap opera‑style melodrama, and first‑rate performances from Penelope Cruz.

Broken Embraces doesn't disappoint on either front.

In 2008 Harry Caine (Lluis Homar) is a blind Spanish scriptwriter who keeps mostly to himself -  which doesn't really explain why he is so determinded to refuse a lucrative assignment from mysterious director Ray X (Ruben Ochandiano).

Meanwhile, back in 1992 Lena (Cruz) is an actress turned hooker turned secretary to a powerful businessman who ends up becoming his mistress when he pays for her father's much‑needed surgery.

What started out as a mystery becomes a love story as we see how their lives intertwine - Lena takes on a role in Harry's final film - only to become a mystery again as tragedy strikes.

Almodovar's visual flair isn't entirely absent here (tears dripping on tomatoes, anyone?), but this seems a more restrained film than some of his more recent works.

The focus is firmly on storytelling and performance, resulting in a film that engages as a drama first and foremost.

As always, Cruz is Almodovar's shining star, Given a role that verges on cliche, she makes it one of the most vibrant and memorably individual characters of the year.

3.5 out of 5

Broken Embraces
Australian release: 17th December, 2009
Official Site: Broken Embraces
Cast: Penelope Cruz, Lluis Homar, Blanca Portillo
Director: Pedro Almodovar