The Sea Inside

Star Review

Alejandro Amenábar returns to Spain for this award-winning depiction of the story of Ramon Sampedro, whose 30-year battle for public recognition of his right to end his own life brought him international notoriety. Debates on self-determination and dignity are dramatised here (Catholicism's empty comfort is outshone by realist charisma) but Amenábar's humanist message is never simplistic. Indeed, one of the best things about the film is its account of love as grasping and self-interested. In interview, Amenábar describes The Sea Inside as a 'melodrama' concerned with 'the entire female universe revolving around Ramon.' A frank portrayal of the petty jealousies and conceits of this universe makes the film distinctive. With a sort of compelling weariness, Javier Bardem conveys the horror of a life in which everyone wants a piece of him, but death is the only lover he really desires. Bardem is (of course) impressive and affecting but then so are the less well-known members of his 'universe', particularly Mabel Ribero, whose terse performance powerfully suggests the difficulties of a carer's role.

Kate Davies on 7th July 2005

View all 10 of Kate Davies’s reviews

[ Show Film Description ]

Film Description

Based on a true-life story, Bardem plays Ramon, who is fighting a long campaign in favour of euthanasia and his own right to die.

[ Show Star Review ]

Ratings for this DVD

Average Rating
Log in to place your vote!

DVD Extras

• Director commentary
• Documentary "Trip to The Sea Inside"
• Deleted Scenes
• Trailer
• Storyboards.

Film Details

Cast

Javier Bardem

Technical Details