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

Javier Gutiérrez
as Álvaro

María León
as Amanda

Adelfa Calvo
as Building Manager

Adriana Paz
as Irene

Tenoch Huerta Mejía
as Enrique

Antonio de la Torre
as Teacher

Cris Nollet
as Policía 2
- RT
Rafael Téllez
as Mr. Montero
- DP
Domi del Postigo
as Presenter
- JC
José Carlos Carmona
as Jesús
Directed by Manuel Martín Cuenca