The Room Next Door

*From the organisers (correct at the time of publishing), please see the organiser’s website for the latest details.

2024 ( Spain/USA ) (Drama)
Starring: Julianne Moore, Tilda Swinton, John Turturro
Director: Pedro Almodóvar
The Room Next Door navigates the complex and timely topic of assisted dying amidst a backdrop of rekindled friendship and personal contemplation. Set as Almodóvar’s first English-language film, it stars Tilda Swinton as Martha, a respected war correspondent battling cervical cancer, and Julianne Moore as Ingrid, a writer. The two, once close but estranged over the years, reconnect when Ingrid learns of Martha’s terminal condition.

The film delves into existential themes while avoiding pomposity, anchored by compelling performances from Swinton and Moore. Their shared history includes working at a trendy magazine and being romantically linked to the same man, Damian (John Turturro). Despite its dramatic potential, the film maintains an engaging dialogue rich with literary and philosophical reflections, reminiscent of Almodóvar’s artful storytelling style.

Martha reveals her intention to use a ‘euthanasia pill’ acquired from the dark web and asks Ingrid to accompany her in her final moments. Their interactions offer a poignant exploration of mortality, forgiveness, and friendship. Almodóvar layers the narrative with flashbacks, gradually revealing the complexities of Martha’s life and career. The film is visually captivating, encouraging audiences to reflect on personal and societal aspects of death, underpinned by Almodóvar’s deeply humanistic approach.