Review of The Sea Inside (2004) by Iva R — 24 Feb 2011

While handled in a very formulaic way typical to the "disability" drama (cue sad music here, cue inspirational speech here, etc.) this film was filled with stellar acting and a story that brings a very important subject to the forefront.

Bardem and his surrounding cast are magnificent (though don't be deceived by the front cover, that picture was taken from a ~2 minute snippet of the movie), which is the real selling point of the film.

There isn't much new in the plot or the delivery, and for those who are turned off by the genre, there is nothing here to win them back. But as far as foreign dramas go, this is good one. The cinematography is beautiful but is helped along by the scenery.

Though the plot is predictable from the get-go, the great performances from Bardem, Rueda, and Dueñas make the film worth a watch.