Almodóvar presents 'The Room Next Door' in Venice with a message against hate.

In an atmosphere charged with emotion and reflection, Pedro Almodóvar presented his latest work, 'The Room Next Door,' at the Venice Film Festival, where he not only shared his artistic vision but also delivered a powerful message against "hate speech," which has unfortunately gained prominence in contemporary society. In his speech, the Spanish director called for empathy and generosity, values that stand as fundamental pillars in his film, which explores friendship and death in a world that seems to be in crisis. Accompanied by the talented Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore, who play the leading roles, Almodóvar emphasized that his film is a direct response to these divisive discourses that are heard daily. "My film is the opposite of those speeches," he stated, highlighting that his story focuses on human connection in times of adversity. The plot, inspired by Sigrid Nunez's novel, follows a former war reporter facing a terminal illness who seeks the companionship of a friend to confront her own farewell. The director did not limit himself to discussing the plot of his film but also called for action, especially regarding the situation of migrants. "I want to send this message to all unaccompanied children who are struggling to reach our borders," he noted, criticizing the stance of the far-right in Spain that seeks to close the doors to those trying to find a better life. His message is clear: cinema must be a tool of resistance against injustice. Almodóvar highlighted that his film addresses delicate topics, such as euthanasia, and expressed his desire for this option to be regulated worldwide. In his view, Spain, having legalized euthanasia, should serve as an example to follow. "It is urgent that these types of measures are extended worldwide," he asserted, emphasizing the importance of respecting individual autonomy in such personal decisions as the end of life. Despite the profound themes of 'The Room Next Door,' Almodóvar seeks to convey a message of hope. "It's always difficult to talk about death," he reflected, but the story, while tough, is imbued with a sense of brightness. At 74 years old, the director shares his own confrontation with death, acknowledging that each passing day is a reminder of his own finitude. However, he clings to the idea that each day is also an opportunity to live. Tilda Swinton, who has previously worked with Almodóvar, echoed the connection she feels with his cinema, which represents a space of acceptance and recognition. "Pedro was always at the center of everything, of La Movida, of cultural change," the actress recalled, showing her admiration for the director and his ability to create art that transcends borders and eras. Julianne Moore also highlighted the emotional strength of Almodóvar's works, emphasizing the importance of female friendships in his narrative. "It’s hard to find stories about female friendship, especially if the friends are older," she acknowledged, underscoring an aspect that is often marginalized in the film industry. The cast of 'The Room Next Door' is equally notable, including figures like John Turturro and Raúl Arévalo. Each brings their own talent to the tale, which not only focuses on life and death but also on the bonds that unite us and the love that endures even in the darkest moments. Almodóvar, always a master at capturing the complexity of human relationships, has created a work that not only entertains but also invites reflection and dialogue. His presence at the Venice Film Festival not only marks the return of an iconic filmmaker but also a declaration of intent: art is resistance, and through it, hate can be fought and empathy fostered. In times of polarization, his message resonates more than ever, reminding us of the importance of understanding and generosity in a world that often seems on the brink of abyss.