Second Time Around (2002)

Vera's three actors -- Mollà, Gil and Bardem -- excel in insightful, empathetic performances.

Spain's greatest star wattage doesn't overcome the tumult of maudlin tragedy.

[Javier Bardem is] one of the few reasons to watch the film, which director Gerardo Vera has drenched in swoony music and fever-pitched melodrama.

Movies like this are selling the old European candor, the old wink of 'bold' revelation. But in 2002, such revelations wilt.

It’s sincere to a fault, but, unfortunately, not very compelling or much fun.

Despite some strong performances, never rises above the level of a telanovela.