Exploring the Profound Shift in Pedro Almodóvar’s Latest Film, The Room Next Door

Renowned for his vibrant production design, whimsical storytelling, and audacious exploration of societal taboos, Pedro Almodóvar’s films often transport viewers to eccentric worlds that pulsate with life yet remain slightly off-balance due to sharp dialogue and flamboyant aesthetics. However, his latest endeavor, The Room Next Door, marks a significant departure from his established style. This film delves into the sensitive subject of assisted death, presenting it with a bold yet tender approach. Almodóvar’s signature tone and visual flair are still present but are now infused with a deeper sense of gravity.

This evolution in Almodóvar’s filmmaking approach is particularly intriguing as this marks his first venture into English-language cinema, following his shorter works, Strange Way of Life (2023) and The Human Voice (2020). As he previously noted, this transition signifies the beginning of a “new era” in his artistic journey, yet the right project for such a momentous change did not emerge until he encountered Sigrid Nunez’s novel, What Are You Going Through. The novel’s core explores the intimate conversations between a woman and her terminally ill friend, providing a poignant backdrop for Almodóvar’s exploration of mortality.

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At the heart of The Room Next Door lies the character of Ingrid (played by Julianne Moore), an autofiction writer grappling with her fear of death, even as she works on a book intended to confront this very fear. Her life takes a poignant turn when she learns that her old friend, Martha (embodied by Tilda Swinton), is facing terminal cancer. This revelation prompts a profound reconnection between the two, culminating in Martha’s request for Ingrid to stay with her in a rented house, where she plans to take a euthanasia pill: “I’m ready to go,” she confesses. “I’d even say I’m impatient.” 

Echoing the structure of a theatrical play, where time and space condense into a singular setting, Almodóvar’s film shines brightest in its portrayal of the evolving bond between Ingrid and Martha. Their relationship unravels within the confines of homes adorned in vibrant colors—lush greens, striking reds, and whimsical banana-themed decor. As Julianne Moore articulated during a press conference following the film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival, “We very rarely see a film about female friendships, and especially female friendships that are older.”

The essential theme of autonomy over one’s own life and death resonates throughout the film. While this topic has been touched upon in cinema before—most notably in films like 2007’s Le Scaphandre et le Papillon (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) and 2022’s Plan 75)—it remains a largely taboo subject. Euthanasia, for instance, is currently legalized in only four European countries, and the broader discussion of mortality is often shied away from in Western culture.

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The Room Next Door effectively sheds light on these pressing issues in a mostly impactful and resonant manner, particularly as the narrative approaches its second act. However, there are moments where the dialogue feels overly simplistic and literal. For instance, during a conversation in which Martha informs her ex-boyfriend about her pregnancy, his response is notably detached: “I was planning on moving to San Francisco next week.” Another instance features Ingrid suddenly discussing finding a gym in the midst of a serious conversation about death, as if every fleeting thought must be verbalized. While this blunt style is characteristic of Almodóvar, the film’s first English-language script may contribute to a sense of disconnection in a narrative addressing such sensitive themes, potentially undermining its emotional authenticity.

Despite these occasional narrative hiccups, the film’s core message remains poignantly clear: the importance of having autonomy over our own existence. While the majority of us may never have the privilege of choosing to pass away in a lavish glass house, adorned in red lipstick and lounging on Hockney-colored sunbeds, we should still possess the fundamental right to dictate the course of our own lives and deaths—especially when faced with a diminished quality of existence. As Martha poignantly reflects, “there are lots of ways to live life inside a tragedy”—thankfully, The Room Next Door is not one of them.

Pixar’s Inside Out 2 Sets New Milestone in Animation

Pixar’s highly anticipated sequel, Inside Out 2, has made history by becoming the first animated film to surpass the remarkable $1 billion (€894.3 million) mark at the international box office. This groundbreaking achievement was reported by Hollywood news site Deadline, highlighting the film’s impressive ability to resonate with audiences worldwide.

The coming-of-age adventure crossed this monumental threshold after accumulating an additional $9.1 million (€8.1 million) internationally over the weekend. The film’s success places it among an elite group of just 12 films that have reached this coveted milestone, with Inside Out 2 being the sole animated feature in this prestigious club. Other notable films in this exclusive category include:

• Avatar and its sequel Avatar: The Way of Water
• Titanic
• Avengers: Endgame
• Avengers: Infinity War
• Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens

While these impressive box office figures signify global success, the film’s top international markets have been particularly noteworthy. The leading countries contributing to its earnings include:

• Mexico: $102.2 million (€91.4 million)
• Brazil: $80 million (€71.5 million)
• The United Kingdom: $72.7 million (€65 million)
• France: $62.6 million (€56 million)
• South Korea: $60.8 million (€54.4 million)

According to BoxOfficeMojo, which meticulously tracks box office revenue, Inside Out 2 has also garnered an impressive $646.3 million (€578 million) within U.S. cinemas alone. The film officially claimed the title of the highest-grossing animated film of all time back in July 2024, surpassing the previous record held by Frozen II, which had maintained its position since 2019.

This sequel to Pixar’s critically acclaimed and commercially successful 2015 original continues the endearing journey of young Riley as she navigates the challenges of high school. The film explores how this pivotal life stage affects the anthropomorphized versions of her emotions, brought to life by a talented ensemble cast featuring Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, and Ayo Edebiri.

Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson Reunite in “The Banshees of Inisherin”

Actors Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson are set to recreate the magic of their previous collaborations in their latest film, The Banshees of Inisherin, which recently premiered at the illustrious Venice Film Festival. This poignant narrative explores the complexities of friendship through the lives of best friends Pádraic (played by Farrell) and Colm (portrayed by Gleeson), who reside on a picturesque yet remote island off the west coast of Ireland.

Their idyllic friendship takes a sudden twist when Colm unexpectedly decides to sever their bond, leaving Pádraic bewildered and searching for answers. The film, helmed by the acclaimed director Martin McDonagh, who also directed the duo in In Bruges, masterfully blends drama with elements of dark comedy, creating a finely balanced cinematic experience.

Harry Styles Takes Center Stage

Meanwhile, the second week of the festival has been marked by the sensational presence of superstar Harry Styles. The former boy-band heartthrob turned actor drew immense crowds as he graced the red carpet, generating palpable excitement among thousands of eager fans. Styles stars alongside Florence Pugh in Don’t Worry Darling, which was screened out of competition, directed by Olivia Wilde.

The film delves into the lives of Alice (Pugh) and Jack (Styles), who navigate their existence in the seemingly perfect community of Victory. This experimental company town is home to the men engaged in the top-secret Victory Project and their families. However, as Alice begins to question the true nature of their life in this idyllic setting, unsettling mysteries about their fabricated paradise start to unravel.

Looking Forward to the Closing Ceremony

The Venice Film Festival is set to conclude on Saturday, culminating in the prestigious awarding of the Golden Lions. As the festival draws to a close, the spotlight on these remarkable films and their talented casts continues to shine brightly.