Review of The Sea Inside (2004) by Alasdair B — 23 Jan 2015

The topic of euthanasia (assisted suicide), is a touchy subject. Many have argued and are still debating to this day if it is "morally sound'', or if it should be legalized. This film is about this topic, and I must say, for such heavy subject matter, this film still managed to move me, even if I am conflicted on the topic. Whatever your opinion is, whether it's right or wrong, is your opinion. I am not here to discuss this topic, I am here to review this film. "The Sea Inside'' is directed by Alejandro Amena¡bar and is based on the true story of  Ramon Sampedro, who was a left quadriplegic, and wished to end his life. It stars Javier Bardem, Belan Rueda, Lola Dueas, Mabel Rivera, Celso Bugallo, Clara Segura, Joan Dalmau, Alberto Jimanez, and Tamar Novas.

Ramon Sampedro (Bardem), was a young man when he had his terrible accident. It left almost his entire body paralyzed, and he remained bedridden for twenty-eight years. He sought to end his own life, but for years and years the law would not allow it. Eventually, a lawyer named Julia (Rueda), is assigned his case, to which she accepts for free. The two quickly form a deep friendship, and they begin to develop feelings for each other. Ramon realizes that most people disapprove of his wishes. Even some of his own family members and close friends do not understand him. In particular, Rosa (Dueas). She and Ramon grow to be close friends, and she begins to fall in love with him, and seeks to help him believe what she does; that life is worth living.

This film features several familiar Spanish actors and actresses, and all of them do a fantastic job in their roles. Javier Bardem is one of the best actors in the business, despite the fact that he has only been in a couple of American films (No Country For Old Men, Skyfall). He's been in multiple foreign films, and this one features what may very well be his best performance next to Anton Chigurh. He was completely trans-formative in this movie. I couldn't believe it was him at first. He is a very talented actor with a large range. He was so convincing and so impressive in this film. The rest of the cast, while no where near as impressive, should not be overlooked. Everyone did a solid job in their roles, even though Bardem steals the show in every scene he is in.

The score by Alejandro Amen¡bar is beautiful, and the cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe is well handled. The only flaw I could think of is that the film is just a little too long. It's clocks in at about two hours and five minutes. There are times, fleeting times, where it drags on. Aside from that, this is a very beautifully moving film that I thought was really impressive. Many people won't like it due to it's controversial nature. However, I recommend that if you watch it, watch it with an open mind. You don't necessarily have to agree with the message of a film to enjoy it. If you want to have a discussion in the comments about this topic, feel free to do so. The film is on Netflix, so you can watch it there, then come back to talk about it if you wish.

"The Sea Inside'' is an extremely impressive foreign film with a powerful performance from Javier Bardem. It's a film not many will agree with, but it is still a wonderful movie. The acting is great, the story is powerful, it's well written, it has great direction, and it's very thought provoking.