Spanish-born actress Penelope Cruz was recently photographed arriving on the island of Lanzarote. This sun-soaked tourism paradise will provide the backdrop for Cruz's latest movie. Few details have been released about "Los Abrazos Rotos" ("The Broken Embrace"). In fact, exact locations for filming had not even been finalized upon the crew's arrival in Lanzarote. It is tentatively set for release in Spain in 2009.



The movie is written and directed by Spain's own Pedro Almodovar. Almodovar seems to be smitten with Penelope Cruz, at least for her talent. Almodovar is openly gay, but maintains a close friendship with Cruz. The two are often seen together in public, especially when working together. He has directed Cruz in a number of other films, including "All About My Mother" (1999) and "Volver" (2006). Her portrayal of a mother dealing with a teenage daughter's crisis in "Volver" led to Cruz's nomination for a "Best Actress" Oscar. Cruz was the first Spanish actress ever to receive such an honor. Their long history and ability to mesh undoubtedly led Almodovar to invite Cruz to star in his latest project, "Los Abrazoz Rotos."

Work began immediately upon the crew's arrival on Lanzarote on May 25, 2008. The first order of business: scouting film locations. They were spotted just a day later at Lanzarote's famous Guatiza Cactus Garden. The area was highly guarded and Cruz shielded from the public. Time will tell if the trademark windmill of Jardin de Cactus makes a guest appearance in "Los Abrazos Rotos." The film will likely contain some aerial shots of the area since film crews were spotted in a helicopter overhead.

Penelope Cruz has starred in a number of American films. Some of her U.S. credits include "All the Pretty Horses" (2000), "Blow" (2001) and "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" (2001). Cruz won an Italian Academy Award for her performance in the 2005 film "Don't Move."

Born in Madrid, Spain in 1974, Cruz spent the early years of her life devoted to another art. She studied ballet until the age of 15. It was at the tender age of 17 that she was cast in her first film "Jamon Jamon" under Spanish director Bigas Luna. Within just a few years she caught the attention of Pedro Almodovar. Since that time, she has earned a special place in his heart and his movies.

Penelope Cruz has more than just a beautiful face and acting talent going for her. Cruz is known by her colleagues for her strong drive and work ethic. She is also hailed for her compassion and generosity. She spent a week volunteering in Calcutta at Mother Theresa's children's sanctuary. She later donated her entire salary from the movie "The Hi Lo Country" to the sanctuary. Cruz is also an outspoken opponent of the intrusive and invasive practices of the paparazzi.

Cruz appeared to be happy to be working in Spain again. Though Lanzarote is miles from her hometown, Spain holds a special place in her heart. Altogether the film crew spent about two weeks on sunny Lanzarote. "Los Abrazos Rotos" is scheduled for its American release in late 2009, about eight months after its Spanish debut. Between coming home and working with her favorite director, Cruz's newest movie may be her best yet.