... Broken Embraces is a well-written story of a love so precious it hurt.

Though the film offers nothing new for the eyes, its wordiness ultimately acts as a complement rather than a drawback to Almodóvar's masterful storytelling.

While it may not be Almodóvar's greatest work, it still stands well above most other films in terms of intrigue, intelligence and innovation.

I walked out of the theater on air, with that charge you only get from an uncommonly affecting cinematic experience. Alive, giddy, with a love for movies.