Broken Embraces Review

Messages: Although the drama here is heavy and complex and characters often behave questionably, the ultimate take away is that true love knows no bounds and, while often hard to attain, is worth the cost. The movie also sends that message that love manifests itself in many ways, not just through passion.

Role models: Some characters speak disparagingly of others, and others are portrayed stereotypically. A woman who marries a much older man out of gratitude later resents him and has an affair with another man (with whom she falls madly in love). A young man is a helpful friend to an older man, who returns the favor when he takes care of the boy after a drug trip gone bad. The rich flaunt their money through jewelry and clothing.

Violence: A husband pushes his wife down the stairs, which breaks her legs. He also threatens her when she verbalizes her desire to leave him. A man shoves around another man who’s been following him with a camera. Husband and wife argue loudly.

Sex: A man and a woman heave and moan on a sofa; nothing is seen, but it’s clear they’re having sex. Before the act, they engage in sexual banter, and, soon after, he fondles her breasts, which are seen close up. Another couple engages in a steamy embrace; they’re under the sheets, but their backs, shoulders, and legs are exposed. A woman talks about hating having sex with her husband, whom she pretends to like but despises. Frank talk about sex acts. A man talks crassly about his ex-wives with his current male lover.

Language: Everything from “son of a bitch” to “f--k" to "ass" to "for God's sake," though not used constantly. Some derogatory terms are also said.

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Nightclub DJs talk freely about drug use and offer each other MDMA, meth, and other substances. Characters snort cocaine. One collapses after having a drink spiked with roofies.