I disagree with my esteemed colleagueโs recent review of THE ROOM NEXT DOOR. I was totally mesmerized by its quiet contentโฆ the pull of life decisions forced upon anyone facing terminal illness.ย
My age is an advantage in this topic. I am at the other end of the balance beam. I have had these same conversations with friends and family. These are split seconds of hushed, overwhelming words that fall out of our mouths and canโt be erased. They crash against lifeโs boulders that maintain our sturdy, steady footing. Some souls are stronger and more accepting of the inevitable, while others stay hidden, unable to move. Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore are exquisite and extraordinary actresses who weaveย audiences down a dark yet illuminating path. Their emotional performances were not โwoodenโ to me. Their silent breaths spoke volumes.ย
I realize Pedro Almodovar, the director, usually creates his film stories in Spanish. I appreciated the care and tenderness expressed by the two characters. He was their creative anchor. For me, less was more. The arch of an eyebrow, a yearning look, or a small sigh hit my heart with loving gratitude. The director understood the David vs. Goliath battle before both women. Kudos.ย
THE ROOM NEXT DOOR deserves your attention. We all could one day be exactly where this film leads us. We donโt know which role the powerful, great beyond will assign us.
THE ROOM NEXT DOOR is available in theaters.
