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The Motive

2017 · Movie · TV-MA · 104 min · ★ 6.2 · 59% critics

Drama

A struggling writer becomes obsessed with creating “high literature” and starts watching the people in his apartment building for inspiration. As he inserts himself into their lives and quietly nudges events to fit his story, his search for authenticity turns into a risky game with real consequences.

Where to watch

Streaming on Netflix.

2 hours to watch.

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Details
Original title
El autor
Years
2017
Release date
2017-11-17
Language
Spanish
Rated
TV-MA
Runtime
104 min
Max quality
HD
Critic score
59/100
TMDB rating
6.2/10 (284 votes)
About

You’ll likely enjoy this if you like slow-burn Spanish dramas about obsession, envy, and moral lines, with uneasy humor and mounting tension; Not for you if you want fast pacing or a likable lead, and consider Cannibal for a similar mood.

Pros: intriguing premise; darkly funny moments; strong performances | Cons: slow pacing; unpleasant main character; some gratuitous nudity

Themes

  • writing workshop
  • aspiring writer
  • seville, spain

Cast & crew