Broken Embraces (Pedro Almodóvar, 2009)

What's it about? A blind writer (Lluís Homar) recalls events from 14 years previously, when he was a film director who embarked on a steamy affair with his leading lady Lena (Penelope Cruz). As we flash back and forward in time, illicit passions and dark secrets are revealed.

Is it any good? A typically colourful melodrama from Almodóvar, which gives the slight tale a bit more heft with the effortless non-linear storytelling. Penelope Cruz and her breasts give radiant performances and there's some great sets and artwork on show in the background. All in all, it's more of a light, affectionate embrace than an emotional, heartfelt bear-hug, but it's a nice enough story, nicely told.

Anything else I should know? Almodóvar intended this as a kind of modern film noir, but one shot in bright colours instead of black-and-white. It references various classic noirs, both in its plot machinations and certain scenes, but it's playful rather than powerful, which lessens its impact as a thriller. Nonetheless, Cruz's seductive turn is a worthy tribute to the leading ladies in film noirs of old. Did I mention her breasts?

What does the Fonz think? Noir-lite, noir-bright.




Buy it on Amazon