Almodovar Explores Friendship and Euthanasia in English-Language Debut

Spanish director Pedro Almodovar’s first English-language film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on Monday. The movie, titled “The Room Next Door,” explores profound themes like terminal illness and climate disaster, all viewed through the lens of female friendship.

Starring Tilda Swinton as a war reporter suffering from terminal cancer, the narrative follows her decision to end her life on her own terms. She convinces an old friend, played by Julianne Moore, to join her in her final days.

Almodovar emphasized the film’s focus on celebrating life while also advocating for the right to die with dignity. He condemned countries such as the United States for their stance against euthanasia, contrasting it with nations like Canada and Spain, where the practice is legal.

Almodovar argued that laws supporting euthanasia should be universally implemented, free from political or judicial interference. Known for his extensive work in Spanish cinema, with over 40 films to his name, Almodovar described his venture into English-language filmmaking as akin to delving into a new genre of science fiction.

Almodovar has previously won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film with “All About My Mother” in 1999 and another for Best Original Screenplay for “Talk to Her” in 2002. Swinton, who has admired Almodovar’s work for years, shared that she once offered to learn Spanish just to be a part of his projects.

Within the film, Swinton’s personal struggle is interwoven with grim messages about the looming threat of climate change. Almodovar draws parallels between the character’s terminal condition and the potential terminal condition of the planet. “Climate change is not a joke,” the 74-year-old director said, urging people to recognize the reality of environmental crises.

Despite the somber themes, Swinton and Moore highlighted the movie’s optimism. They noted that Almodovar’s signature humor and social commentary bring a sense of hope and gratitude for life. Moore, who won an Oscar for Best Actress in 2015 for her role in “Still Alice,” remarked that the film leaves the audience feeling more thankful for each day.

“The Room Next Door” is among 21 films competing for the prestigious Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival, with the winner set to be announced on September 7.

Source: Crispian Balmer, Sharon Singleton