Monday Morning Maybe

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Poster for Broken Embraces

Broken Embraces

Seen it?

2009 | 127 min | Drama, Romance, Thriller

Sunday Safe Bet

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It earned strong reviews (82% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had little lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who likes to be kept guessing and romantics. If you loved Vertigo or Dial M for Murder, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Tense, warm and romantic.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 7 min.
What might put you off
  • Rated R: meant for adults.
  • It's in Spanish, so expect subtitles (or a dub).

Harry Caine, a blind writer, reaches this moment in time when he has to heal his wounds from 14 years back. He was then still known by his real name, Mateo Blanco, and directing his last movie.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    82% on Rotten Tomatoes, 76 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesSolid

    7.2 out of 10

  • AwardsSolid

    Won 1 Critics' Choice Award: Critics' Choice Movie Awards: Best Foreign Language Film. Also nominated for 1 Golden Globe, 1 BAFTA and 1 Cannes award. Plus 5 other awards.

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $31 million worldwide on a $18 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactBelow par

    About 28K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Pedro Almodóvar

  • Penélope CruzLena
  • Lluís HomarMateo Blanco / Harry Caine
  • Blanca PortilloJudit García
  • José Luis GómezErnesto Martel
  • Rubén OchandianoRay X
  • Tamar NovasDiego
  • Ángela MolinaLena's Mother
  • Chus LampreaveConcierge
  • Kiti MánverMadame Mylene
  • Lola DueñasLip Reader