Livingston Library - Foreign Film Series: THE SEA INSIDE

The final film in this season's Foreign Film Series is the 2004 Spanish film, THE SEA INSIDE (Original title: "Mar adentro" - shown with English subtitles). There will be an afternoon show at 1:00 p.m. and an evening show at 7:00 p.m.

Starring Javier Bardem, Belén Rueda and Lola Dueñas, THE SEA INSIDE is based on the real-life story of Ramón Sampedro (played by Javier Bardem), a Galician ship mechanic left quadriplegic after a diving accident and his 29-year campaign in support of euthanasia and the right to end his life with dignity.

The film explores Ramón's relationships with two women: Julia, a lawyer suffering from Cadasil syndrome, who supports his cause, and Rosa, a local woman who wants to convince him that life is worth living. Through the gift of his love, these two women are inspired to accomplish things they never previously thought possible.

The story caused a stir in 2005, when it won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, with the depictions of disabled persons desiring death. Both advocates for the disabled and (unfortunately for the disability advocates) conservative pro-life groups protested both films, and the Oscar nominations.

The film's strongest asset is its supporting characters, and the actors who play them. It depicts how Ramón's fight and decisions affect those around him with a beautiful precision. The family members in particular are great, and Ramón's final departure from them is absolutely heartbreaking. 
Nominated for 90 awards worldwide, the film is rated PG-13.

All film programs are sponsored by the Livingston Library Endowment Fund.