Some time after learning that an old friend of hers, Martha (Tilda Swinton), is dying from cancer, Ingrid (Julianne Moore) is asked to spend time with her before she ends her life.

Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language film may sound like a terrible downer on paper, but it is a life-affirming portrait of two women’s friendship and the power of literature, which plays an important part in their relationship. The film also explores the frail bond between mother and daughter.

Not quite as moving as one would hope for, but the two stars are brilliant; lovely cinematography and music.

2024-Spain. 107 min. Color. Widescreen. Written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar. Novel: Sigrid Nunez (”What Are You Going Through”). Cinematography: Edu Grau. Music: Alberto Iglesias. Cast: Tilda Swinton (Martha/Michelle), Julianne Moore (Ingrid), John Turturro (Damian), Alessandro Nivola, Juan Diego Botto, Raúl Arévalo.

Trivia: Spanish title: La habitación de al lado.

Venice: Golden Lion.