31/25
Pedro Almodovar’s first feature film in English
Line of Events
Ingrída and Marta were close friends in their youth when they worked together in the same magazine. After years of not communicating, they meet again in an extreme but strangely cute situation. IMDb editor Arno Kazarian offers quick images of the 12 films he screened at the 2024 New York Film Festival, including Anora and the dangerous, strangely erotic Misericordia. ..
Featured on The 7PM Project: September 8, 2024 Episode (2024)
'The Room Next Door (2024)' is Pedro Almodovar’s first feature in English. Starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore, the film basically touches on what it’s like to live when you know you’re going to die (something we all have to deal with, whether we realize it or not). There’s a poignant line that goes something along the lines of «there are many ways to live in tragedy,» and it basically sums up the gist of the picture: even though our lives must end, they don’t. that doesn’t mean we can’t live with hope, purpose, and joy.
While touching at times, much of it is a bit dry
While it meanders until it reaches this point, it doesn’t necessarily waste screen time. Its various plot threads and seemingly inconsequential scenes actually drive towards its main message, with the obvious highlights being used to build the relationship between the two characters. Most of the film consists of conversations where people directly tell someone how they feel, which can feel a little awkward at times. A lot of it is typical Spanish melodrama, but it’s written in English, which can give some of the dialogue an off-kilter vibe.
It’s certainly not their best work, but it’s often closely watched and consistently engaging
It’s also far less dynamic than your average Almodovar picture, though it’s well-shot and has considerable personality. What makes even its drier segments completely watchable is the strength of the performers, who all bring an understated charm to their roles. Ultimately, while it’s definitely Almodovar’s average, the piece is entertaining and affecting enough to keep you watching from start to finish. It’s never exactly what you think and has well-defined themes that are conveyed in a realistic manner.