BROKEN EMBRACES aka CHANEL ON FILM

PENELOPE CRUZ IN BROKEN EMBRACESThe latest film by legendary Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodovar is not to be missed.   Broken Embraces is classic Almodovar, the film has that surreal, yet so real sense of whimsy, sensuality, and suspense that is as recognizably Almodovar as a fingerprint.  Almodovar muse Penelope Cruz has never been better as she portrays Lena.  We watch as this woman goes from rags to riches in her quest to care for her family and her own pursuit of happiness.  As if it were ever that easy!  There is love, turmoil, betrayal, joy and of course sex!  A true slice of life as only Almodovar can cut on film.

While there are so many layers to discuss, I wouldn't be a true fashion fanatic if I didn't mention the fact that this film could have served as a commercial for Chanel.   From the moment Penelope's character becomes a woman of leisure - the CC's start flowing!   Couture, RTW, Accessories, scarves, you name it!  Of course the items are not current as the film was shot two years ago.  In fact, much of the wardrobe was from the Cruise 08 collection.  

side note : The little color blocked knit from one scene almost made it into another major fashion film.   Stylists for Sex & The City The Movie borrowed the same sample for Sarah Jessica for the opening scene.  While it didn't make the cut, there was a serious amount of Chanel in the first SATC movie as well.   How could there not be?ROSSY DE PALMA AS "KIKA" BY ALMODOVAR

Look for a cameo by another famed Almodovar muse - Rossy de Palma.   Her trademark profile is as strong as ever - and her presence on film is refreshing to see, albeit brief.   You might also recognize Rossy from George Michael's Too Funky video.   Fashion designer Thierry Mugler directed that infamous video - as de Palma was also a muse of his - having walked his runway show in Paris.

Look for Broken Embraces at the independent theater in your town - or rent it when you can!  Watch the trailer below: